Long before your child gets his or her first tooth, which is typically around the age of 6 months, you should begin caring for your child’s gums. Having healthy gums help ensure that the first teeth will be healthy as well. Not only will visits to a pediatric dentist that offers comprehensive dental care for kids, like Colorado Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines, help with keeping your child’s teeth free of cavities, but proper oral care at home will also help to keep cavities at bay. Below are a few tips for helping you keep your young child’s mouth clean and healthy so his or her baby teeth will be cavity free.

Avoid Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
As one of the most common ailments young children face, baby bottle tooth decay occurs when babies drink milk or other sugary beverages from a bottle without having their mouths cleaned after feeding. Our kids’ dentists suggest helping your child avoid this common condition by providing him or her with water to drink once he/she has finished drinking milk. And if your child needs a bottle at bedtime, only put water in it and not milk or another sugary beverage so the teeth are not exposed to sugar for long periods of time.

Wash the Gums
To clean your baby’s mouth, use a clean, cold washcloth to gently wipe out the mouth. This will help remove sugar and acid left behind by their food to help prevent early cavities. You should be cleaning your baby’s mouth after each feeding, so try to work it into your daily routine.

Use a Toothbrush Designed for a Small Child
When your child has a few primary teeth which should occur sometime between the ages of 8 and 12 months, begin cleaning the teeth using a toothbrush that is specially designed for a young child. This type of toothbrush features a small head with very soft bristles. Gently brush your child’s teeth twice per day using a small smear of fluoride toothpaste that is made especially for young children. Be sure to rinse out their mouth with cool water when you’ve finished brushing the teeth and try to keep your child from swallowing any toothpaste.

Visit Your Centennial, CO Children’s Dentist
The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should visit a dentist for the first time by the time they have their first birthday. When you bring your child to our children’s dentist office in Highlands Ranch or Castle Pines around one year of age, it will help your child avoid cavities and assist in getting your child used to being in a dental office. The entire team at our practice is committed to providing a positive dental experience for your child. We will examine your child’s teeth at every visit and provide you with some helpful tips for helping you care for your child’s teeth and gums at home. If it’s time to bring your child in for a dental check-up, please contact us to request an appointment Highlands Ranch or Lone Tree dental offices!