Health Tip: Pay Attention to Your Child's Teeth

(HealthDay News) -- Proper dental care from the start is essential for your baby, as improper care of baby teeth can lead to permanent trouble.
Here are some tips on how to care for your child's teeth, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:
Beginning at birth, gently run a damp cloth along your baby's gums after each feeding.
Once a baby tooth appears, brush it twice a day with a soft, baby toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of baby toothpaste. This should be done up to age 4.
Once two teeth come in that touch each other, begin to floss your child's teeth each day.
Your baby should have her first dentist appointment within six months of her first tooth, or by her first birthday.
Avoid giving your baby sugary or sticky foods, and don't send her to bed with a bottle of juice, milk or formula. The sugars in these beverages will stick to her teeth and can cause decay.

Last reviewed: 04/11/2006 Last updated: 04/11/2006