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February is National Children's Dental Health Month and according to the American Dental Association,teaching your child good oral hygiene habits early can lead to a lifelong healthy smile, but did you know that just because babies don’t have any visible teeth, doesn’t mean they can’t get cavities? A baby’s 20 primary teeth are already present in the jaws at birth. And those baby teeth that begin coming through the gums around 6 months help set the stage for future smiles by keeping space in the jaw for adult teeth.

RISK FACTORS FOR CAVITIES:

1.            Non-fluoridated drinking water

2.            Frequent snacking of carbohydrate foods keeps acid attacking the enamel

3.            High Sugar beverages.   Avoid putting the baby to bed with sugary beverage in the baby bottle.

4.            Chronic illnesses   Medications with high sugar content contribute to developing cavities

5.            Poor oral hygiene habits

6.            Family members with untreated cavities

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR GOOD DENTAL HEALTH:

1.            Establish a dental home – First visit to the dental office should be by the age of 1.

2.            Be a good role model of oral health habits for your child.           

3.            Monitor and assist your child with home care. 

4.            Home Care Regimen: BRUSH/FLOSS/RINSE/CHEW (sugar-less gum)

CLICK HERE to learn more.