Infant Oral Hygiene?

I have found little soft brushes that fit over your finger to be very convenient for this. Once teeth do begin to erupt, they need to be brushed with fluoride-free toothpaste twice daily.

Many children have large spaces between their baby teeth, which lessens the need for flossing - but it is still a good idea. The spaces, by the way, bode well for eruption of permanent teeth without crowding. Some kids do not have this space; in this case, flossing should begin as soon as possible. I say this as the mother of a 3-year-old who does not have extra space. I have found that flossing aids with plastic handles are much more acceptable to her than my fingers in her mouth.

Once the child is old enough to reliably spit toothpaste out while brushing, you should begin using fluoridated toothpaste. Also, fluoride rinses, such as ACT Anticavity Fluoride Rinse, can be used after flossing and brushing once your child is old enough to spit. If a child cannot spit, the fluoride could cause a stomach ache. It’s a good idea to “practice” by swishing and spitting with water.

We recommend that kids begin seeing a dentist at 3 years. At this age, we find that we can get them to cooperate without being fearful. Today’s fluoride varnishes can be used at any age and no longer have the terrible taste many parents may remember.Congratulations on your little girl.

- Ellen Standefer McOmie, D.M.D.