Infant Oral Health
Deciduous (baby) teeth begin forming in the fourth month of pregnancy and continue to form until about 1 year of age. Adult teeth can begin forming at birth and continue until about 12-13 years of age. Proper nutrition is important in order for the teeth to be strong and healthy while they are forming as well as after they have erupted.
The task is not a difficult one. Nor will it take a lot of
your time. To prevent infant caries be aware of tooth development and look for signs of
problems. An infants teeth should be kept clean with a damp cloth or gauze after each
feeding and especially before bedtime. Fluoride supplements should be given to a child who
does not have fluoridated water. In addition fluoride treatments are given every six months
at a child's regular dental visit.
Nursing caries "baby bottle decay" is caused by putting a child to bed with a bottle of milk
juice or sweetened beverage. It can also be caused by prolonged breast feeding of children
who have erupted teeth. Nursing bottle decay is especially prevalent in children who feed
all night.
The solution to these problems is to avoid bedtime bottles with milk juice or sweetened
liquids. Use water in the bottle if necessary. Call our office with any questions you may
have about you infants or child's teeth. (845) 679-2421.