How can I ensure that my baby will have healthy teeth?

Good oral health and dental hygiene are important in preventing tooth decay. Tooth decay is an infectious disease that is caused by bacteria and a diet containing many refined foods and sugars. Bacteria can be transferred to your baby when you share spoons with your baby when tasting foods or when you “clean” your baby’s soother with your mouth first and then put it in your baby’s mouth.  Your child’s dental health depends on you.

Be a Role Model. Your child looks to you as an example of how they should be taking care of themselves. It is important to look after your oral health before, during, and after pregnancy. Mothers who maintain good oral health often have children with good oral health. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once a day. Visit your dentist regularly. Eat a well-balance diet and avoid sugary foods.

Promote Healthy Teeth. Offer your baby healthy food choices. Choose snacks that contain more whole grains and cereals. Research shows cheese is a very healthy snack that may protect your teeth from tooth decay. Avoid sticky sweets that can stick to the grooves and pits of your child’s teeth. Wean your baby from the bottle by 12-14 months of age. Do not give your baby juice, formula, or milk in a baby bottle or sippy cup at bedtime. Although it may be convenient in the short term, it could potentially lead to baby bottle tooth decay where the sugars from the juice or milk can eat away at the enamel of the teeth. In severe cases, teeth may have to be pulled.  You can start taking your child to the dentist for a check-up by one year of age.

Establish a Daily Routine. Clean your baby’s mouth daily before your baby’s teeth appear with a clean washcloth.  Check for whitish lines or brown spots along the gum line by lifting your baby’s lip at least once a month. Begin brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear, usually around 6 months of age. Help your children with proper brushing until they are old enough to write (not just print) their own name.

Healthy baby teeth are important in the development of your baby’s face and mouth, their speech and their eating habits. Begin each day preserving your baby’s smile.

For more information about taking care of your baby’s teeth or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).