It\u2019s a chance for both you and your baby to get comfortable with the office and meet the dentist. Plus, you can ask any kid\u2019s dentistry questions you have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. What is baby bottle tooth decay?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You may have heard about baby bottle tooth decay, but know that it\u2019s a preventable condition. It\u2019s another name for dental decay in infants and toddlers. The front teeth are often the first affected due to their contact with a bottle, which is how this condition gets its name. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It can happen when the sugars from formula, milk, or juice sit on the teeth for a long time. That\u2019s why you should avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle of milk or using it as a pacifier. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you notice white spots on the teeth or sensitivity, that can be an early sign of decay. As it gets worse, you might notice yellow stains or brown spots and swollen gums. Be sure to book a dentist appointment as soon as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. How do you brush baby teeth?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Good oral hygiene is key to keeping your baby healthy and happy. Before your baby\u2019s first tooth appears, you should wipe their gums with a soft cloth after feeding. This removes extra sugars and bacteria from their gums and keeps their mouth healthy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once your child gets their first tooth, it\u2019s time to upgrade to an infant toothbrush. Run the bristles under the water and brush all sides of your baby\u2019s teeth and along their gums. Make sure to brush twice a day, and especially before bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plain water works just fine for babies, but you can add kid\u2019s toothpaste to the routine as your child gets older. Use a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. Using too much toothpaste can lead to an upset stomach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. How do you brush your child\u2019s teeth properly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Around age 3, your child can start using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste<\/a>, as is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. You should have them brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes. The best times to brush are after breakfast and after dinner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Put fluoride toothpaste on your child\u2019s toothbrush and run it under the water. You can let them hold the toothbrush and put your hand over theirs to guide them. That way you can teach them the proper way to brush while you make sure they reach every surface. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once the two minutes are up, encourage them to tilt their mouth to let the toothpaste drain out or tell them to spit. As they get older, you won\u2019t need to help as much but you should still watch them to make sure they\u2019re brushing thoroughly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n5. How do I get my toddler to brush?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n