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As new teeth erupt, examine them every two weeks for lines and discoloration caused by decay.
Remember that sugary foods and liquids can attack a new tooth, so take care that your child
brushes their teeth after feeding or eating. We recommend brushing three times a day for optimal
oral hygiene: after breakfast, after lunch, and at bedtime. Brushing can be fun, and your child should
brush as soon as the first tooth arrives. When a baby's tooth erupts, parents should brush the tooth
with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a 'smear' of fluoridated toothpaste until their 2nd birthday. From
the ages of 2-5 years old, the parents should switch to a 'pea-sized' amount of fluoridated
toothpaste. We suggest reviewing proper tooth brushing procedures with your child.
Flossing is also a part of good oral hygiene habits, and should be part of a daily routine when teeth
begin to touch. Not only does flossing clean between teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach,
but daily flossing at an early age creates good oral hygiene habits that can last a lifetime. If you
notice signs of decay, contact your dentist immediately.
Your child should visit the dentist every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. We
recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth
sealants are also recommended because they "seal" the deep grooves in your child's teeth,
preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas. Sealants last for several years, but will
be monitored at your regular checkups.
Avoiding Cavities
Don't give your baby any sort of sweetened liquids such as flavored drinks or soda. Even the sugars
present in fruit juice, formula, and milk (this goes for breast milk as well) can cause decay, so regular
tooth and gum cleaning is vital. Also, make sure your baby never goes to bed with a bottle; sugary
liquids in prolonged contact with her teeth are a guarantee for early childhood decay, also called
baby-bottle tooth decay.