Keeping Your Child's Teeth Healthy
When should I schedule my child's first trip to the dentist? Should my 3-year-old be flossing? How do I know if my child needs braces? Many parents have a tough time judging how much dental care their kids need. They know they want to prevent cavities, but they don't always know the best way to do so. Here are some tips and guidelines. When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Teeth? Good dental care begins before a baby's first tooth appears. Just because you can't see the teeth doesn't mean they aren't there. Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth, your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw. Here's when and how to care for those little choppers: Even before your baby starts teething, run a clean, damp washcloth over the gums to clear away harmful bacteria.When your baby gets teeth, brush them with an infant toothbrush. Use water and a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste, about the s...