Good oral hygiene needs to start early in your little one’s life. Even before your child’s first tooth appears, plans should be set in motion for proper care of teeth and gums.

As most baby teeth don’t emerge until around six months, standard oral practices like flossing and brushing aren’t necessary until the 1^st tooth erupts. That said, babies have unique oral care requirements every parent should know and understand.  At this young age, wiping the gums with a clean, moist washcloth helps keep the mouth clean.

Baby teeth are place holders for when permanent teeth begin to appear. If a baby tooth is lost due to decay, this can prevent permanent teeth from emerging correctly and may even result in teeth that are crooked or have an abnormal bite. Also, an infection in a baby tooth can cause damage to underlying adult teeth.

Most pediatric dentists recommend regular dental visits starting around six months after the first tooth appears or by a child’s 1^st birthday. This is also an ideal time to discuss with your child’s dentist appropriate daily dental care to lay the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.