The Importance of Dental Care for Babies

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Some people believe that dental care for babies isn't important because 'baby' teeth fall out and are replaced soon enough with the child's permanent teeth.

To many parents it might seem reasonable to not worry too much about these temporary teeth; however one of the most important reasons to teach young children proper dental care is so good habits stick with them throughout their lives.

If good dental habits aren't in place by the time permanent teeth begin appearing, which is around 6 years of age, developing good habits will be more difficult later on.

The majority of infants have teeth symptoms when they are around 6 months of age.

Typically the bottom row of central incisors is the first to appear followed closely by the top row of central incisors. All together there are 20 primary teeth and they usually erupt according to a 'schedule' that most infants follow.

The second molars are the last primary teeth to erupt appearing between the ages of two and possibly three years of age.

If an infant's teeth are not properly cared for, they will certainly begin to decay, even from the time they first erupt.

Dental decay is painful especially for an infant and so great care must be taken as this does not to happen. As you will imagine, at only 6 months old, no infant has the physical or mental skills required to be able to brush their own teeth.

So naturally it is the parent’s task to clean the baby's teeth either using a very soft bristled, small toothbrush or a small washcloth.

Right before they are put to bed is the best time to clean a baby’s teeth by gently brushing or rubbing the tooth or teeth.

Paediatric dentists advise that around a child’s first birthday is the proper time to visit a kids dental clinic.

This first visit is essential for the dentist to check that a baby’s teeth are cutting through properly.

Also the dentist will want to ensure your baby is getting enough fluoride. If it is not in the infant’s drinking water, the dentist will more than likely write a prescription for fluoride to help protect the child's developing teeth from decaying. 

However if a baby's teeth are showing any signs of spotting or staining before they turn one it is best to get them to the dentist straight away.

To keep decay under control, don't give infants sugary drinks, especially at night from a bottle. During the day, don't fill a baby bottle with sweet drinks to use as a pacifier.

Keep in mind that most milk and formula and even fruit drinks contain sugar. Doing any of the above can cause baby bottle tooth decay. It's not a good idea to coat a pacifier with sugar either as that can also lead to decay.

By the age of two children can usually manage to brush their own teeth with supervision.  Dab a small amount of fluoride toothpaste on a soft brush and let them do it themselves.

From an early age it is best to train Children to eat healthy snacks and foods like vegetables and fruit that will limit tooth decay and instil good eating habits.  
At meal and snack time a responsible parent will avoid giving an infant sugary snacks, drinks or foods.