Proper dental care should begin before baby’s first tooth appears . Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy . At birth your baby will have 20 primary teeth, some of which are developed in the jaw .

Once your child has a few teeth showing , you can start brushing them with a soft child’s toothbrush only , or rub them with gauze at the end of the day .

Even babies can have dental decay problems if the parents do not practice good feeding habits at home . When you are going to put your baby to sleep , putting a bottle in his/her mouth may be convenient in short term , but it can be harmful in time for your baby’s teeth . When the sugar from food and drinks remains on the baby’s teeth for some hours , it might easily eat away the enamel , creating a condition know as bottle mouth .

What kind of dentist is needed for your child ?

You have to take your child to a dentist who is specialized in treating children . Pediatric dentists are well trained to handle a wide range of issues associated with your child’s dental health . They are able to specify if your child needs a specialist like a orthodontist to correct on overbite or an oral surgeon for jaw realignment . The pediatric specialist focus on preventing , heading off potential oral health problems before they occur , and maintenance .

How to prevent cavities .

It is recommended that your child’s first visit takes place once a year. The dentist will explain proper brushing and flossing techniques . Such visits will help your child in the early detection of potential problems . When your child’s primary teeth have come your dentist may apply topical fluoride . Fluoride’s purpose is to enhance the tooth enamel , helping ward off the most common childhood oral disease , dental caries , or cavities .

Cavities are cause by bacteria and by the food left on your teeth after eating . If they are not brushed away , acid collects on tooth , softening it’s enamel until a hole appears ( cavity ) . Regular use of toothpaste containing fluoride will protect more the enamel , making it more difficult for acid to penetrate . Brushing at least twice a day and routine flossing will maintain the healthy mouth .