Caring for Baby Teeth
Good dental health for your baby can start even before that first tooth shows. A soft piece of cloth can be used to wipe down your baby’s gums after feedings to be sure to wipe away bacteria.
As soon as that first tooth comes to the gum surface, use a soft toothbrush or soft cloth to brush the tooth with small, gentle, circular movements.
Give a bit more attention to where the tooth meets the gum, since it’s easier for bacteria to get trapped in this area. Although your child’s baby teeth will eventually fall out, it’s important to care for them now because they set the stage for your baby’s permanent, adult teeth.
Your child can have trouble speaking or chewing properly if their baby teeth aren’t cared for.
And you’re teaching them a great, healthy habit at a young age.
What Does Fluoride Do?
Fluoride is probably an ingredient in your toothpaste or mouthwash. What is fluoride, and what can it do for your teeth?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral often found in drinking water and certain foods. It protects teeth in two ways:
1. By aiding your tooth enamel to be produced in a more decay-resistant form.
2. By protecting the enamel from being attacked by acid from bacteria in your mouth.
These bacteria are made even more potent when there is sugar in your diet. Bacteria love sugar. The resulting acid attacks your enamel and can cause tooth decay. Fluoride is available in several forms:
• Fluoride treatments during a visit to our practice
• Over-the-counter and prescription toothpastes and rinses
• Supplements prescribed by a dentist or medical doctor
If you drink bottled water or have a higher risk of tooth decay, you may not be getting enough fluoride in your diet. Call us so we can discuss your unique needs.
Finding the Right Dentist
Has a friend or loved one asked you for a referral to a good dentist? Here are a few questions you should urge them to ask when making this crucial decision.
1. What is the dentist’s education and training?
2. How long is the wait for an appointment?
3. Is the most up-to-date equipment used?
4. How does the dentist keep current with new techniques in dentistry?
5. Is the dentist available after-hours in case of an emergency?
6. What kind of payment is accepted?
7. Does your insurance provide coverage? Are payment plans available?
8. What do other patients think of the dentist? Read the online reviews to see what other patients have experienced.
By the way, we’re ready to answer these and other questions that new patients have. We hope you’ll direct your friends and family our way! They’ll be in good hands.
