Do you have an infant? If so, the experts at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), have published an easy-to-read booklet, A Healthy Mouth for Your Baby, full of sound advice on how to help your baby have a healthy mouth even before the first tooth appears.

The booklet points out how good nutrition during pregnancy will help you and your growing child stay healthy. Ask your doctor for advice on eating the right foods and taking vitamins. Remember that breast-feeding is the optimal choice for feeding your newborn. Mother's milk contains important protective antibodies that protect your infant against bacteria and viruses.

When should you begin cleaning your baby's mouth and teeth? The sooner the better. Starting at birth, clean your baby's gums with a clean, damp washcloth. As soon as teeth erupt, begin cleaning them - teeth can begin to decay as soon as they come in. Again, use a moistened cloth or a small, soft-bristled toothbrush at least once a day, preferably just before bedtime. Healthy teeth should be all one color. If you see spots or stains on the teeth, take your baby to a dentist. When most of your child's teeth are in, at about the age of 2, you can add a small drop of toothpaste to the brush. Also, ask your doctor or dentist if you need to use fluoride drops for your baby's teeth. Well known for its use in preventing tooth decay, fluoride may not be added to your town's water supply.

Around the time of your baby's first birthday, call your dentist and ask when you should come in for the first checkup. Pediatric dentists usually want to see a child between the ages of 1 and 2 and then twice a year thereafter. At this first visit, the dentist will quickly check your baby's teeth and answer any questions about your child's oral health.

About the Author

NIH is the nation's medical research agency - making important medical discoveries that improve health and save lives. The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the primary Federal agency for conducting and supporting medical research.