The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Division of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center recommend that your child's first dental visit should be six months following the eruption of the first primary tooth or no later than age 1.
- Clean your child's mouth daily even if he or she doesn't have teeth.
- Do not use fluoride toothpaste until after age 2.
- Discontinue the bottle by age 1, unless it is medically necessary.
- Only use water in your child's bottle or sippy cup while sleeping.
- Encourage your child to drink plenty of water and milk.
- Eat healthy foods. Limit sweets to special occasions.
- Limit sodas, juice, and drinks containing caffeine.
- Limit snacking in between meals.
- Examine your child's teeth.
- Have regular dental check-ups and start no later than age 1.
