I am 8 months pregnant and would like to know what I need to do to keep my babys teeth healthy.
By the time your baby is born, 20 'baby' or primary teeth have already begun forming under the gums. The first teeth usually erupt in six months to a year and unfortunately, tooth decay can begin as soon as eruption starts. Never allow your baby to fall asleep with a bottle that contains milk (even breast milk), formula, fruit juices, or sweetened liquids. Never dip a pacifier in sugar or honey. Start oral care early. Wipe your baby’s gums with a clean gauze pad after each feeding and begin brushing with water as soon as the first tooth erupts. Visit your dentist before your child’s third birthday. Besides checking for decay and other conditions like thumb sucking, your dentist can counsel you on optimizing your baby’s nutritional needs to protect his/her dentition.