Early Dental Care by Provo Dental in Provo, Utah
It's best to start your child's dental care as early as possible, and that starts in the home. Proper dental care, including regular checkups, saves you money in the long run.
Tips for Early Dental Care
Any advice on teething?
Sore gums from teething often occur for a few days at a time between six months to age three. Babies often get relief from a clean teething ring, cool spoon, cold wet washcloth or toothbrush. Chilled teething rings or rubbing a clean finger on the sore gum area often helps too.
When should my child first see a dentist?
Your child should visit a dentist when they are three years old. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child's smile now and in the future.
How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or a bottle?
Taking your baby off of the breast when he/she falls asleep can prevent baby tooth decay. Hold your baby while bottle feeding. Always take a bottle filled with milk or juice away from the sleeping child.
If your child requires a bottle at bedtime provide a bottle filled with water. Instead of a bottle try comforting your child with a pacifier or a favorite toy or blanket.
Check with your health care provider to make sure your child is getting the right amount of fluoride. Brush your baby's teeth with a soft toothbrush daily.
When should bottle feeding be stopped?
Begin teaching your baby to use a cup by seven months. It's a good idea to introduce juice in a cup. Your baby can be off the bottle by 12 months.
Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most stop by the age of two. Prolonged (beyond age 5 or 6 years) thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems. We will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb-sucking habit.
