Q: How do you clean a baby's teeth?
A: Plaque bacteria can be removed with a toothbrush. A soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed for infants, should be used three times a day

Q: Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
A: Baby teeth serve many purposes. They allow a child to speak properly and to chew. They also provide the framework for the permanent dentition.

Q: Can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
A: Yes, there are several practices that will help prevent the type of tooth decay termed "baby bottle tooth decay." Since this type of decay is usually caused by the frequent and long-term exposure of a child's teeth to liquids containing sugars, measures can be taken avoid these extended exposures.

1. Never allow children to fall asleep with a bottle in their mouth that contains milk, formula, juice or other sugar-based liquids.
2. To help establish healthy teeth and aid in teething, you can clean and massage your baby's gums.
3. Upon the eruption of the first baby tooth, you should begin plaque removal techniques, brushing your child's teeth using a soft toothbrush.
4. Your baby's first visit to the dentist should be between the age of six and 12 months.

Q: When should my child first see a dentist?
A: "First visit by first birthday" sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between six and twelve months of age. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child's smile now and in the future.

Q: Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?
A: The most important reason is a practical prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is nursing or baby bottle tooth decay. Your baby risks severe decay when he or she nurses continuously from the breast or from a bottle of milk, formula, or juice during naps or at night. Another concern is gum disease. Recent studies show nearly half of all children aged two and three have at least mild inflammation of gum tissues. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily, learn to speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.

Q: How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or a bottle?
A: Don't nurse your child to sleep or put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice, or sweetened liquid. Use only water in the bottle, or give your baby a pacifier. Check with your pediatric dentist to make sure your child is getting enough fluoride for decay protection. Lastly, learn how to brush and floss your child's teeth.

Q: When should bottle or breast feeding be stopped?
A: To assure good dental health, infants should be weaned from a bottle or nursing at one year of age.

Q: Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?
A: Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants: most stop by age two. If your child doesn't, discourage it after age four. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb-sucking habit.

Q: When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?
A: The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your baby's gums with a clean damp wash cloth. Use a tiny dab of fluoride toothpaste if your pediatric dentist advises fluoride protection. Later, brush your child's teeth with fluoride toothpaste and small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Remember that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively.

Q: Any advice on teething?
A: From six months to age three, your child may have sore gums when teeth erupt. Many babies like a clean teething ring, cool spoon or cold wet wash cloth. Some parents swear by a chilled teething ring: others simply rub the baby's gums with a clean finger.

Q: When should we begin using toothpaste and how much should we use?
A: When a child is 2-3 years of age floridated toothpaste should be introduced. Before this time parents should clean the child's teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. After the age of 2-3, parents should supervise brushing and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.

Q: Is my child getting enough fluoride?
A: Your pediatric dentist may prescribe flouride supplements if your child is not getting enough through drinking water. If your child primarily drinks bottled water without fluoride this may be necessary. Ask your pediatric dentist for an evaluation if you are concerned.

Q: How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist?
A: In order prevent cavities and other dental problems a check-up is recommended every six months. Your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your children should visit based on their personal oral health.

Q: How can I protect my child's teeth during sports?
A: Plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth from sport related injuries. A custom mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide protection from severe head injuries by providing a small cushion for shock absorbing.

Q: How can I help my child remain cavity-free?
A: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that your child should brush with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day. They also suggest that you floss your children's teeth once a day until they are able to do it themselves - around the age of 10. They recommend that your child get enough fluoride and have sealants applied to the chewing surface of permanent back teeth or molars soon after they come in. In addition, they suggest moderate snacking - only twice per day.

Q: What are dental sealants?
A: Dental sealants protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth where cavities occur most often for children. Sealants, composed of clear or shaded plastic, are painted onto the tiny grooves in the molars. By "sealing out" food and plaque, sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay. Sealants can be quickly and painlessly applied to any permanent teeth that are likely to develop decay on the biting surface.