|
So many things happen in your baby's first few years. So
many skills for both of you to learn. So many new routines. Since
one of these should be caring for your baby's gums and new teeth,
this page will help answer many of your questions.
|
What do you mean by good oral hygiene?
Good oral hygiene is the proper care of teeth and gums so they can be
their healthiest during childhood and afterwards.
When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth and gums?
Pediatricians recommend starting as soon as the first tooth comes in.
That's because sugars in food, milk and formula can form a plaque-like
film. Removal of this film is important to promote good oral hygiene
at an early age.
What's the best way to clean my baby's teeth and gums?
Up until now, parents could only wipe babies' teeth and gums with a
washcloth or gauze pad after feeding or nursing. Now many pediatricians
recommend a special product just for that purpose: Baby Orajel Tooth
and Gum Cleanser. It's the first oral cleanser specially formulated for
babies. It's nonabrasive and designed not to scratch or scrape the enamel
of soft, new teeth. Unlike toothpaste, Baby Orajel Tooth and Gum Cleanser
won't foam and is safe and gentle enough for daily use. What makes Baby
Orajel Cleanser so effective is that it contains MicrodentTM,
a patented ingredient that has been clinically shown to remove plaque
on teeth, as well as fight plaque build up.
What about fluoride?
While fluoride can help prevent cavities, its use must be carefully controlled in young children. The experts at the Food & Drug Administration do not recommend fluoride toothpastes for children under 2. That's because babies under 2 may swallow the toothpaste. Repeatedly ingesting too much fluoride may cause spots to develop on the teeth. That's why Baby Orajel Tooth & Gum Cleanser does not contain fluoride.It's best you check with your pediatrician to see if there's fluoride in your water supply If not, he or she may recommend daily fluoride drops or tablets.
What else should I be doing to ensure good oral hygiene?
 You should never put your baby to bed with a bottle (unless it's water) since the sugar in formula or juice will pool around the teeth. A severe condition known as baby bottle tooth decay may occur. It's also best not to let your toddler walk around with a bottle during the day. What's important is to minimize the amount of time the bottle is in the mouth.Your pediatrician is trained to check a baby's teeth and provide instruction on cavity prevention. Visits to the dentist are also an important part of good oral care. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend a first checkup before your child turns one. The purpose of this visit is for a preventive exam only. Your child's clean, healthy teeth are important in so many ways. And best of all, they can give you the beautiful smile which is your reward for the love, care and effort you have given.
|
