Tooth Care from Birth through Adulthood

Thanks to some new studies the recommendations for pediatric dental health have changed.  Here are a few important facts about your child’s teeth:

• You should begin brushing your child’s teeth from the time of the first tooth eruption.

• Children ages 6 months-3 years should use a rice grain sized amount of fluoride containing toothpaste. This amount should increase to a pea size after age 3.

• Children should not rinse after brushing their teeth as fluoride works best “topically” or when it remains on the teeth.

• Fluoride is safe and efficacious for all ages, and there is no danger associated with swallowing toothpaste.

• Efforts should be made to wean children off bottles by age one to protect teeth. Gummy candies, fruit chews, and other high sugar treats should be avoided.

• Supplemental fluoride orally is only necessary in children who have a high risk of dental caries and have no fluoride in their water source.

• First dentist visit is recommended between ages 1 - 2.