 Infant
Dental Care
Dr. Wright has trained with some of the world's most prominent
infant and child dental teachers. He is rapidly becoming known as
Pueblo West Area's leading dentists for families who want comfortable,
safe and friendly care for their children.
Click below for information regarding your infant's dental care.
Decayed (Baby) Erupting Teeth
(bottle caries)
Signs and appearance of teeth displaying bottle caries:
- Brown teeth with fragmented edges
- Upper front teeth that break easily
Children who have erupted teeth or are past the age to be weaned
are highly susceptible to rotted front teeth when being put to
bed with a bottle containing milk, juice or other sugar-containing
liquids. There is decreased salivary flow during sleep and clearance
of the liquid from the teeth is slowed.
The liquid pools around the upper front teeth and creates an
excellent environment to promote the growth of decay-causing bacteria.
Removing the bottle before the first tooth appears and wiping
the child's gums and teeth with a soft cloth before being put
to bed can help prevent decay.
At 18 months of age, parents should be encouraged to ask their
dentist to examine their child and recommend home care.
When should I start
cleaning my baby's teeth?
This is a good habit to start early! The teeth
must be cleaned as they erupt. Use a damp wash cloth or a toothbrush.
If your health care provider agrees, use a tiny
dab of fluoride toothpaste. Tooth brushing is definitely a parents
job in the preschool years.
Children are usually able to brush their teeth well
when they are 8 years old. Be sure to check your child's teeth
regularly for any chalky white or brown spots which could be the
beginning of tooth decay.
Advice on Infant
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?
"First visit by first birthday" sums it
up. Your child should visit a dentist when the first tooth comes
in, usually between six and twelve months of age. Early examination
and preventive care will protect your child's smile now and in
the future.
What dental problems could a baby
have?
Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (BBTD), which is preventable. BBTD can
result from long periods of exposing baby teeth to liquids that
contain sugar including formula, milk, breast milk, and juice.
A baby who has a habit of sleeping with a baby bottle filled
with any sugary liquid or a breast in their mouth is at risk of
getting BBTD. Frequent snacking on sweet or sticky foods can also
cause decay.
The earlier the first dental visit, the better chance of preventing
dental problems. Children with healthy teeth can chew food well,
speak clearly and share precious smiles. Start your child on a
lifetime of good dental habits now!
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.
Should I worry about infant 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. Your dentist
will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb-sucking
habit.
Preventing Decayed Teeth
Fluoride, in proper dosage, has been shown to significantly reduce
dental decay. When fluoridated water has less than the ideal amount
or is not available, fluoride supplements are recommended. (A
call to your local water district is all that is necessary to
determine whether your water has fluoride or not.)
When supplements are needed, the administration of fluoride supplements
should begin shortly after birth and continue through the time
of eruption of the second permanent molars (approx. 12 years of
age).
Regular dental check-ups should begin no later than 18 months
of age.
If you have any questions or need more information, don't hesitate
to call.
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