A baby's first tooth is a very exciting event for parents! Teeth are an important milestone to development like walking and talking. As parents, we need to ensure that our children's teeth are strong and healthy and remain strong and healthy.
The first teeth are called milk teeth or primary teeth and these first teeth help prepare the way for a set of healthy and straight adult teeth. Once the tooth has broken the gum surface, your baby's teeth are at risk for decay. Decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth uses types of foods particularly sugars to produce acid. This acid attacks the tooth enamel, weakening the tooth and making them suceptible to decay. Saliva helps in protection with helping wash away the sugars and acids from the tooth. Saliva also helps strengthen and repair teeth.
Proper and good dental habits that are established early will help with maintaining strong and healthy teeth and will provide a great foundation for the adult permanent teeth. Good brushing habits are very important because it will rid the teeth of any food or drink that could possible cause decay.
Before even the sign of a first tooth, you should be gently brushing the baby's gums. Remember always to brush gently as babies' gums are tender and can easily be injured. It is recommended after the first sign of a tooth to brush at least once daily and then after the second to brush twice daily. Using tooth tissues is a great way to rid the baby's teeth of the sugars and other substances that may cause tooth decay.
Infant tooth care is an important issue. The
Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and the
American Dental Association (ADA) recommend early
infant tooth care. To read more about about this important issue click on the links below to some of articles we have found about early childhood dental care.
1.
A Reminder to Parents: Early Dental Visits Essential to Children's Health, American Dental Association.
2.
Take Care of Your Child's Smile for Life, Academy of General Dentistry.