Oral Health

Good oral health does not just mean you have pretty teeth. Your whole mouth needs care to be in good health. The word “oral” refers to the mouth, which includes your teeth, gums, jawbone, and supporting tissues. Taking good care of your oral health can prevent disease in your mouth. Oral health can also affect the health of your body. It is easy to take your oral health for granted. But good oral health is key to your overall health.
Below are some things you need to know about your baby’s oral health :
    * The same germs that cause tooth decay in your mouth can be passed to your baby. Do not put your baby’s items, such as toys, spoons, bottles, or pacifiers in your mouth.
    * Wipe your baby’s teeth and gums with a clean gauze pad or baby toothbrush after each nursing and feeding. This can help remove sugars found in milk that can cause tooth decay.
    * If you bottle-feed your baby, try to finish bottle weaning by age 1. Avoid giving your baby bottles or pacifiers at naps and bedtime. Sucking on a bottle when lying down can harm your baby’s teeth.
    * All babies should visit a dentist by age 1. The dentist will screen for problems in your baby’s mouth. You will also be shown how to care for your child’s teeth and mouth.
    * Talk with your doctor about the best water choices for infants. Fluoride is good for teeth. But too much fluoride can harm development of tooth enamel in infants.