Dental caries (cavities) are caused by germs. Babies are born without these cavity causing germs. They acquire these germs from their caregivers' mouths. Caregivers pass these bacteria by sharing spoons, testing foods before feeding it to babies, by cleaning off pacifiers in their mouths instead of using water and through other activities where saliva is shared. These germs can start the processes that cause cavities even before babies have teeth.
Protect your babies' teeth from cavities with these tips:
- Before the first tooth comes in, wipe the mouth every day with a soft moist washcloth. Start an oral health care routine early.
- Once present, clean teeth twice a day- morning and before bedtime.
- When teeth erupt, use a soft bristled toothbrush with a "pea" sized smear of toothpaste. Use fluoridated toothpaste only after the child has mastered the art of "spitting out" into the sink.
- Avoid sticky foods, candy soda or juice between meals. Healthier snacks include cheese, yogurt or fresh fruit. Save the juice and treats for meal times.
- Avoid the routine of using a bottle filled with milk or juice to soothe the baby to sleep. The natural sugars in milk or juice easily change to acid, which leads to cavities. Also avoid having your child use a sippy cup filled with juice between meals. Use water instead in either the bottle or sippy cup.
- No more than 4 to 6 ounces of juice per day. (No juice before six months of age).
- Beware of white spots developing on your baby's teeth. They are often the first signs of a dental cavity.
- Schedule your baby's first dental visit with a pediatric dentist at age 1 year. Pediatric dentists have special training to work with babies and young children.
(Facts courtesy of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry)