Healthy Teeth

PRENATAL: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says dental health begins at the time an infant is still in the womb. In fact, they say what a pregnant woman eats can have a significant impact on the development of the baby's teeth.

Vitamins A, C, D, protein, calcium and phosphorous are crucial to dental health.

Research shows the tooth buds, which are the foundation for teeth, develop around the fifth or sixth week of pregnancy.

The enamel forms on the baby's teeth between the third and sixth month of pregnancy.

INFANT: Experts say the sooner the better for cleaning your child's teeth. Starting right after birth, clean your child's gums after feeding with a wet piece of gauze or a soft towel. From 6 months to age 3 years, your child may have sore gums when teeth erupt. Many children like a clean teething ring, cool spoon, or cold wet washcloth. Flossing isn't just for adults either. Dentists say as soon as your child has two teeth together, it's important to floss them.

TODDLERS: Dentists don't recommend children begin using fluoridated toothpaste until age 2. The AAPD also recommends children visit the dentist within six months of the first tooth coming in. At the very least, they say, "First visit by first birthday." Dentists say it is important to detect decay early because decay at a young age can set the course for decay throughout their entire lives. Also, children who have healthy teeth chew their food more easily, talk more clearly, and have more pleasant dental visits.

BABY BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY: In recent years, dentists have put more warnings out to parents about the danger of leaving a child with a bottle in his mouth during naps or at night. Doing so makes it easier for sugary liquids to pool around the teeth. When the sugars from juice or milk remain on a baby's teeth for hours, they may eat away at the enamel. If children are used to falling asleep with a bottle, parents can put water in the bottle. Juice should be avoided because of the high sugar content. As the child approaches his first birthday, dentists urge parents to encourage the child to use a cup to drink. Watch out for pocked, pitted, or discolored front teeth. These are signs of bottle mouth. Severe cases result in cavities and the need to pull out all the front teeth until the permanent ones grow in.

FINDING A DENTIST: Many obstetrician and gynecology groups will bring in a pediatric dentist to talk about these topics with new parents. If your doctor doesn't recommend a dentist, contact the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry for a referral. You can find a dentist in your area by going to www.aapd.org

For More Information, Contact:
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
211 East Chicago Avenue, #700
Chicago, IL 60611-2663
(312) 337-2169
On the Web: www.aapd.org