A GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD'S DENTAL HEALTH

A GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD'S DENTAL HEALTH CHILDREN'S DENTAL CARE AT A GLANCE • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants at least once a day at bedtime » Visit a family dentist when the first tooth appears, or at your child's first birthday » Schedule a "Happy Visit Appointment every 6 months, or as recommended by your family dentist CALENDAR KEEPING YOUR CHILD'S TEETH HEALTHY BABY BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY Occurs when a child's teeth are exposed to too much sugar from drinks Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle of anything besides water BRUSHING Until age 3, use a tiny bit of toothpaste to brush your child's teeth Supervise until your child is around 6 and won't swallow the toothpaste PACIFIERS If your child uses a pacifier, don't put your own saliva on it to clean it Make sure the pacifier is clean, and don't dip it in honey or sugar DIET Feed your child a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and lean proteins Avoid starchy, sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to tooth decay + SODA DENTAL SEALANTS Sealants help protect your child's teeth from decay Application is easy, painless, and can have many positive effects MOUTHGUARDS If your child plays sports, have her wear a soft plastic mouthguard Protects the teeth, lips, WHACK! cheeks, and gums from athletic injuries FLUORIDE Ask your dentist if your child is getting a sufficient amount of fluoride Use fluoride toothpaste, and inquire about supplements at your appointment PROVIDED BY. Valley Dental Group Gentle iamily Destal Care wWW.VALLEYDENTALGROUP.COM Sources: http://www.aapd.org/tesources/frequently-asked_questions/ http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topies/b/baby-bottle-tooth-decay http://www.mychildrensteeth.org/education/quicktips/ SUGAR