Checklist for New Parents
Are you a new parent with questions about dental care for your infant or toddler? We've prepared a helpful checklist for new moms and dads to help you understand what to expect and how to care for your baby's new teeth.
1. Schedule an initial visit with our office by the child's first birthday.
2. Avoid using a baby bottle with milk, formula or juice as a pacifier, or putting the infant to bed with a bottle.
3. Clean in the infant's mouth, gums and newly erupted teeth with a soft cloth or gauze pad after feedings
4. When several baby teeth have erupted, begin brushing teeth with a brush designed specifically for infants.
5. When the child will accept toothpaste, begin using a "pea-size" amount of fluoridated toothpaste with each brushing.
6. Make the most of fluoride. Maintaining appropriate levels of fluoride helps developing teeth grow strong.
7. Care for baby teeth as you would for permanent teeth. Healthy baby teeth lay a strong foundation for incoming permanent teeth.
8. For infants and children who persist in non-nutritive sucking, the pacifier is preferred over the thumb or finger. Pacifier habits are generally discontinued more easily and at an earlier age.