Dental Care for Babies

When your baby starts to produce milk teeth they can be quite vulnerable so it makes sense to get into some good habits. Preventing tooth decay both now and in the future will depend a great deal on what you give your baby to eat and drink so here are some tips to follow:

• Keep sweets and other sugary snacks such as chocolate, raisins and cake down to a minimum. Sugar will naturally mix with bacteria in your baby’s mouth and create a mild acid which attacks the teeth and causes cavities.

• Avoid fizzy drinks and fruit juice. Water and milk are the best drinks to give your baby. Well-diluted juice is okay and if you can get your toddler to use a straw then that will be better for their teeth.

• Plenty of fruit and vegetables will give your baby the Vitamin D they need for healthy teeth and bones. Cheese, milk, eggs and cereals will also provide the calcium and fibre that they need.

• Brush your toddler’s teeth at least twice a day using a baby toothbrush and thin film of fluoride toothpaste.

• As soon as your baby has milk teeth then get into the habit of organising regular dental check-ups at the dentist.

The health of your baby’s teeth is very much in the hands of the parent at these early stages of development. If you need any advice about dental care for your toddler or would like to arrange their very first check-up then please get in touch. We would be happy to help.