You and Your Child Dental Checklist

We know our parents are very important too, and want them to see their dentist regularly. Good oral health in the parent will lead to good oral health and less or none tooth decay in their child. Our Dental Clinic offers dental services for parents too, where they can get the preventive dental care and treatment they need.

Birth to 6 Months

  • Clean the baby's mouth with a gauze or washcloth after feedings and especially at bedtime.
  • Do not put your child to bed with a baby bottle.

6 to 12 Months

  • Your child's first tooth generally appear at this time period.
  • Regulate feeding habits and do not encourage between feeding snacks or beverages containing large amounts of sugar.
  • Offer your baby water on a regular basis - they should drink as much water as they do milk or juices.
  • Begin brushing the teeth after each feeding with a small soft-bristled brush and baby toothpaste.
  • Baby begins to walk. Do not allow your toddler to carry a baby bottle or sippy cup while walking about because they could fall and injure their mouth and increase their risk of early childhood tooth decay.

12 to 18 Months

  • Make your baby’s first dental appointment with a Pediatric Dentist at age 12-15 months. who will teach you how to prevent tooth decay in your child.
  • Wean your baby from the breast or bottle at age 12 months. If you want to continue breast-feeding, be certain to brush the teeth after each feeding.
  • Start using a smear portion of low concentrated fluoride toothpaste or baby’s toothpaste - especially at bedtime.
  • Give your toddler healthy snacks and do not allow them to eat sugary snacks in between meals.
  • Stop pacifier use at age 12-14 months of age. Prolonged pacifier use can cause dental malformations, poor oral habits and encourage or promote ear infections.

30 Months

  • Most or all of the primary teeth have erupted.
  • Follow the schedule of exams and cleanings recommended by your pediatric dentist.
  • Early dental examinations and cleanings when there are not cavities present is the only way you can insure that your child will have a positive and comfortable first experience with a Pediatric Dentist.