Dental/Oral Health

Your child needs regular dental care starting at an early age. Talk with your dentist to schedule the first visit. Good oral health requires good daily care. Follow these guidelines.

For Babies:

• If most of your child's nutrition comes from breast feeding, or you live in an area with too little flouride in the drinking water (less than .3 ppm for children less than 2 years old, less than .7 ppm for children over 2 years old), your child may need fluoride drops or tablets. Ask your health care provider or local water department about the amount of fluoride in your water and note it here:_______ppm.
  
  
• Don't use a baby bottle as a pacifier or put your child to sleep with a baby bottle. This can cause tooth decay and ear infections.
  
  
• Keep your infant's teeth and gums clean by wiping with a moist cloth after feeding.
  
  
• When multiple teeth appear, begin gently brushing your infant's teeth using a soft toothbrush and a small (pea-sized) amount of toothpaste with fluoride.
  
  

For Older Children:

• Talk with your dentist about dental sealants. They can help prevent cavities in permanent teeth.
  
  
• Using dental floss can help prevent gum disease. Talk with your dentist about when to start.
  
  
• Do not permit your child to smoke or chew tobacco. Set a good example and don't smoke yourself.
  
  
• If a permanent tooth is knocked out, rinse it gently and put it back in the socket or in a glass of cold milk or water. See a dentist immediately.
  
  

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