Good Dental Care Starts Early
While dental health for most Americans is improving, the same can't be said for America's kids, according to some studies which show a startling rise in baby tooth decay. Though parents may think these temporary teeth are unimportant to oral and overall health, bacteria from decaying teeth can harm the permanent teeth that follow and even cause other health problems. Indeed, the American Dental Hygienists Association (ADHA) recommends that parents keep their child's mouth clean even before the first baby tooth erupts by thoroughly cleansing the gums after each feeding. Once teeth emerge, brush them gently with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Usually kids can begin to learn to brush their own teeth by age 3, but need help right up until age 8. In addition to oral hygiene, parents should also consider what their kids eat, taking them to the dentist early in life and avoiding bedtime bottles.