| Dr. Barb answers
some common questions about children and the dentist.
What is basic dental health care for children? Children's teeth should be brushed as soon as they come in. This gets children used to dental care. You should brush your child's teeth every day. This way, no teeth are missed!
When should I take my baby to the dentist for the first time? Three years old is
a good age for your child to come with you and watch when you have your
teeth cleaned. This gets your child familiar with the dentist's office.
Just be sure to ask the dentist first if it's OK to bring your child with
you.
How often should I bring my child to the dentist? Starting at age 4 or 5, children should visit the dentist every 6 months to have their teeth checked and cleaned. This should continue all the way through adulthood.
Do babies even need to brush their teeth? If so, how do I do it? When do I start brushing my baby's teeth? Can I use a regular toothbrush, or do I need a special one? Yes. Wipe your babies mouth with a warm cloth before teeth come in. Once teeth erupt (come in), they should be brushed with a soft toothbrush. Do not use any toothpaste. Special toothbrushes are sold for babies, but a soft child's toothbrush will work fine.
Should babies floss too? No. A baby doesn't need to floss because of the large spaces between their teeth.
Should I let my child use mouthwash? Yes, it's OK to give a child mouthwash. Be sure to monitor them while using it so they don't swallow the mouthwash. And it is a good idea to dilute the mouthwash with water so it isn't so strong.
Is it OK to put my baby to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice in their mouth? NO!! Not only can a baby choke to death on the liquid, but also the milk or juice can cause cavities. Cavities in babies are very serious. They could require surgery to correct. |
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The
Main Street project is a partnership of the Virginia Department of Last Updated On Wednesday February 19, 2003 8:48 AM |
