 | Check to see if your dentist keeps film
for dental X-rays in a lead-lined box. The
U.S. Food and Drug
Administration warns that although such boxes are no longer needed, some
dentists might still be using them. They hold a white dust that's almost pure
lead and that can harm you or your children. |
| You should start cleaning your baby's gums even before teeth are formed.
(Check with a dentist, however, before using fluoridated toothpaste on a baby's gums or
teeth). |
| It's important to brush your baby's baby teeth daily. |
| Even small children can develop infections, halitosis (bad breath), gum
disease and tooth loss if their teeth and gums aren't cared for properly. |
| Fluoridation of public water has, according to the American Dental
Association, "achieved an impressive record for safety and effectiveness in helping
to prevent tooth decay." |
| Despite the wealth of positive evidence and the dearth of negative
evidence, some communities still will not allow fluoridation of public water. |
| If your community doesn't have fluoride in its water (ask any local
dentist), your child's teeth can still gain a life-long benefit from an inexpensive
prescription for fluoride supplements. Adults also can benefit from fluoride rinses.
See
KidsHealth for an explanation (written for children) of what fluoride is
and how it works. KidsHealth also offers an explanation to children of
what gum disease is and how to prevent it. |
| Children's cavities have been linked to
second-hand smoke, according to a study published in the March 12, 2003, issue
of the Journal of the American Medical
Association. According to the study, children subjected to second-hand
smoke had higher levels of cotinine, a byproduct of nicotine. Exposure to the
smoke limits the child's body's ability to fight off infection, leading to
increased susceptibility to illnesses such as colds and tooth decay. |
| If you cannot afford dental care for your child, The American Dental Association
or your State Children’s Health
Insurance Program - 1-877-KIDSNOW (toll-free number) - might be able to help you. |
| See the American
Dental Association and/or the American Academy of
Pediatric Dentistry for more information on dental care. 
|
| Clean an infant's mouth with a gauze pad or infant washcloth
after feedings and before bed. |
| Avoid putting the infant to bed with a bottle (this is bad
for emerging teeth and also perhaps conducive to ear infections). |
| Begin brushing emerging teeth with a soft-bristled infant
toothbrush. Clean other areas of the mouth with a gauze pad or washcloth. |
| When necessary, begin fluoride supplements as prescribed by
a pediatric dentist. (Do not use fluoride on a baby's gums or teeth before checking with a
pediatric dentist). |
| Ask your pediatric dentist about sealants (a protective
coating that covers the teeth) for primary molars and permanent molars. |
| Limit snacks between meals to 3-4 per day, and avoid sugary
snacks and drinks. |
| Children should visit the dentist by age 1 (or sooner if
necessary). |
| Brushing should be supervised (and assisted) until age 8. A
small, circular scrubbing motion is recommended for children. |
