Baby’s first teeth need special care

Teething typically begins between the fourth and seventh month. When your child has a few teeth, brush them with a soft toothbrush or rub them with gauze daily. As soon as two teeth are touching, begin to floss gently. About six months after the first tooth emerges, it’s time for baby’s first trip to the dentist.

“Choose a dentist who is comfortable with children,” said Sharon Bergen, senior vice president of education and training for Knowledge Learning Corporation. “A pediatric dentist may be a wise choice.” The office of a pediatric dentist is designed to make children feel secure and safe and has a staff focused on putting children at ease.

“Try to make the child’s visit to the dentist fun,” said Bergen. “You might tell your child something as simple as ‘You are going to visit a doctor who will count your teeth.’”

The first visit to a dentist will likely be brief, giving your child an opportunity to become familiar with the office. The dentist will want you to accompany your child to the examination room, where you may be asked to hold her.

Dierdre Froehlich, a Portland, Ore. dentist, said, “I like to sit kneeto-knee with the parent, with the child on her back on the parent’s lap, with her head toward me. This lets her look at mom or dad.” As your child becomes comfortable, the dentist will examine teeth, gums and bite and gently clean her teeth.

The dentist will discuss with you such topics as good oral hygiene practices for your child, fluoride needs, habits such as thumb sucking, developmental milestones, proper nutrition and when to schedule your child’s next exam.

“Your child’s first visit to the dentist is an important first step toward a lifetime of good dental habits,” said Bergen.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate.