Providing great dental care for your child begins during pregnancy. Good dental hygiene during pregnancy is important to the health of your unborn child. According to research, the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease can be passed from mother to child. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing twice each day is recommended throughout the pregnancy.

Once your new baby arrives, use a clean cloth to wipe her gums after meals. This removes plaque and protects erupting teeth. After the teeth appear, you may begin using a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm water daily. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle (milk, juice, flavored water, or sugary drinks), as this can promote tooth decay or cavities. Be sure to schedule your baby’s first dental office visit when the first tooth appears, but no later than the age 1.

Introducing good dental habits at an early age is fundamental. Children under the age of 2 can learn to brush using a soft toothbrush and training toothpaste (non-fluoridated toothpaste). Learning to spit and not swallow should be practiced before switching to fluoride toothpaste. Once spitting is mastered, it’s time to introduce a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste on the brush.

Helping your child brush twice each day is a great way to evaluate their efforts. Most children are unable to brush well until they are  at least 7 years old. Making brushing fun can help to maintain your child’s attention for the recommended full two minutes. Colorful toothpastes, toothbrushes, and timers can help to keep your little one brushing.

A proper diet is also a part of good oral hygiene. Feeding kids healthy fruits and vegetables instead of sugary snacks sets the stage for healthy development and fewer cavities. Each time your child enjoys a sugary snack or drink, her teeth are attacked by bacterial acids for up to 40 minutes. This is the beginning of the decay (cavity) process.

Start protecting your child’s dental health during pregnancy. Introduce good dental habits early. And plan a visit to our Fort Worth dental office to help protect that priceless smile.