Tooth Fairy Tips For Your Toddler's Teeth
 (NC)-Healthy
baby gums and teeth are important for eating, smiling and
talking up a storm.
Your baby's gums and baby teeth need special care and
attention. It's never too early. A baby or toddler that is
used to having their gums and teeth cleaned and brushed will
be better prepared to take care of their adult teeth when
they come in.
Just as breast milk provides your baby with the best start
in life, oral care can also protect them for years to come.
The following information from HealthyOntario.com will help
parents and caregivers protect baby gums and toddler's
teeth:
Birth to Two
Years
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Use a clean cloth to wipe your
baby's gums and teeth after each feeding.
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As soon as baby teeth appear,
brush them at least twice a day using a small,
soft-bristled toothbrush and water (no toothpaste).
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Once a month, lift your baby's
top lip and check for decay. Look at the front and back
of the top four teeth. If you see white or brown spots,
take your baby to the dentist. |
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Never use corn syrup or
sweeteners on a dummy. |
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If your baby sleeps with a
bottle, use only water. |
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Water is always the best drink
for quenching your child's thirst between meals so limit
fruit juice to mealtimes. |
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Toddlers should stop using
bottles between 18 months and two years of age.
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Starting at two years of age take
your child to the dentist and visit regularly.
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Three to Five
Years
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At three years of age, start using a child-sized,
soft-bristled toothbrush with a pea-sized amount of
fluoride toothpaste to brush your child's teeth.
Toddlers cannot brush properly, so do it for them.
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Be sure to rinse toothpaste from your child's mouth and
do not let your child swallow or eat toothpaste.
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Brush twice a day, especially before bedtime.
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Be sure to brush the hard-to-reach molars near the back.
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At five years of age, start flossing your child's teeth.
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Whenever your child has sweet or sticky food, be sure
that their teeth are well-brushed afterwards.
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- News
Canada
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