Here are some practices that can reduce an infant’s risk of tooth decay before his first dental visit: Clean the infant’s teeth twice a day with cotton balls dipped in clear water.Do not permit your child to use his bottle, containing milk, juice or any flavored or sweetened drink, as a daytime or nighttime pacifier; use of plain water is the better choice.Teach your child to drink from a cup and wean the child from using the bottle containing juice or sweetened drink during daytime.Refrain from a giving the infant a pacifier dipped in jelly or sugar.

Brushing means cleaning not only your teeth but also your tongue and gums. It is good that you do concentrate when you do this activity and have it thoroughly cleaned. It is advisable that you brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth the next time your teeth. Are you aware that this can help increase the blood circulation around the tissues in your mouth and may help minimize the amount of bacteria present? Those who are prone to tartar build-up should use a tartar control toothpaste. Just don’t forget to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance or Recognition when shopping around for one. Happy Brushing!

You know that you have to brush your teeth at least three times a day. You’re at home doing nothing and you’re not even going out so why should you brush your teeth? Why do you even need to floss it?

Brushing and flossing might be two of the most boring activities ever in your everyday life and it may just be the reason why a lot of people (especially the teens –admit it!) spend less time doing it. To be able to neglect the boredom out of brushing, why don’t you try to brush without toothpaste? By doing so, you’ll be able to brush your teeth and at the same time perform your scheduled task.

You think I’m kidding? Not this time!

Put sealants on teeth. Dental sealants are thin, plastic films painted on chewing surfaces of the back teeth that serve as a host to food debris and plaque build-up. They are highly effective in the prevention of tooth decay. In fact, research has shown that sealants actually stop cavities when placed on top of a slightly decayed tooth because it seals off the supply of nutrients to the bacteria that causes the cavity. Sealants are especially beneficial for children because their newly erupted, permanent teeth are most susceptible to cavities, however patients of all ages can benefit from dental sealants.

Eat nutritious foods. What your child eats, and how often they eat, has a dramatic impact on their oral and overall health. Consuming foods high in sugar or starch feed the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Promote healthy eating habits in childhood and teen years to promote optimal health, growth and intellectual development into adulthood.

Floss daily. Begin flossing when your child is around 2 to 3 years old. Children generally need assistance with flossing until they are 8 to 10 years old. Flossing helps remove debris on teeth and gums in-between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces and controls bad breath. Flossing is most effective when done at least once a day for 2 to 3 minutes each time.
Schedule regular dental checkups. Experts recommend that children begin a routine of regular dental checkups beginning at 12 months of age. Their teeth should be examined twice a year for signs of tooth decay, gum disease and other health problems.