Pregnancy and Your Child's Oral Care During Pregnancy While you are pregnant, it is important to remember that your body is the sole source of nourishment for the growing fetus and that your child's mouth begins to develop about three weeks after conception. The healthier your diet is the greater the chance that your child will develop healthy teeth and gums. Food that is rich in calcium and phosphorus are especially beneficial to eat throughout your pregnancy. You must give special attention to your brushing and flossing at this time. Pregnancy causes hormone fluctuations, which can increase the risk of gum disease.

Ages Birth to 6 Years and Up  Every child's mouth develops differently, but the first deciduous (baby) teeth generally erupt as about six months. All 20 deciduous teeth are usually present by the age of three. Permanent teeth begin emerging at about age six, when the first adult molar grows behind the last baby molar. Throughout childhood, it is essential to provide a balanced diet to reduce the risk of decay. Restricting the intake of foods and drinks which are high in sugar content is crucial because deciduous teeth have a softer enamel and are especially at a higher risk to cavities. Your baby's bedtime bottles should never be filled with anything but water - and if possible, water should be given after juice or milk to rinse acids or sugars from the mouth. Never dip your child's dummy in honey or any other sweet products. Thumb sucking is a common habit and is sage to very young infants. However, it should not continue once deciduous teeth have erupted because it can cause misalignment of upper and lower teeth.

Teething Teeth may cause your child to cry for no obvious reason and bay be associated with other symptoms such as fever, congestion and irritability. Teething can occur at the same time as a cold or other illness. Always check with you doctor if you are unsure of your child's condition. Watch for gum redness or swelling. Teething toys are another option to relieve your baby's discomfort.

Ages 6 Months & Up Start brushing as soon as your baby's first tooth comes out. Use a small soft children's toothbrush and be very gental. Brush at least twice a day - after meals and especially before bed. Interest your child in brushing from a young age and make learning to brush easy and fun by teaching how to brush one step at a time. First, let your child pay with a fry toothbrush in the mouth then practice proper brushing techniques and lastly, brushing with toothpaste. Make sure you purchase a children's toothpaste and explain to your child that it must not be swollowed. Until your child is about 9 years old you may need to assist with his or her brushing. As soon as permanent teeth start to erupt, at about 5 or 6 years old, you can begin flossing your child's teeth.

Ages 1 to 2 Years & Up Bring your child to your dentist so that he or she will view the dental surgery as a comfortable and interesting place. Begin your child's dental check-ups at an early age to build confidence and to give your dentist an opportunity to spot potential problems.

Special Concerns If is important to teach these instruction to your child, in case you are not preent during an accident or sporting injury which causes loss of a permanent tooth. Do not let the detached tooth dry out Pick it up by the chewing surface and gently rinse it (without rubbing) Place it in milk, or in a cloth moistened with milk or water. Alternatively, have the tooth held in the child's cheek pouch Call your dentist's office immediately and arrange for an emergency visit. If the tooth is replaced in the socket within 30 minutes of loss, there is a 90% chance of reattachment. Accidental injury to teeth is the most common dental problem in children and adolecents. Mouthguards should be worn during all highly active or contact sports. Pre fabricated mouthguards are available at sporting goods stores, but the most effective mouthguard is custom-made by your dentist. The lessons learned early in life will help you children keep their teeth for life.

Good Diet = Healthy Teeth Healthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. Children should eat a variety of foods from the five major food groups. Most snacks that children eat can lead to cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decay. How long food remains in the mouth also plays a role. For example, hard lollies and mints stay in the mouth a long time, which cause longer acid attacks on tooth enamel. If your child must snack, choose nutritious foods such as vegetables, low-fat yoghurt, and low-fat cheese, which are healthier and better for children’s teeth. Instead of soft drinks and cordial, give your child water to drink. How to Prevent Cavities Good oral hygiene removes bacteria and the left over food particles that combine to create cavities. For infants, use a wet gauze or clean washcloth to wipe the plaque from teeth and gums. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle filled with anything other than water. For older children, brush their teeth at least twice a day. Also, watch the number of snacks containing sugar that you give your children. Your dentist may also recommend protective sealants or home fluoride treatments for your child. Sealants can be applied to your child’s molars to prevent decay on hard to clean surfaces.