Dental Care for Children

Week of October 12, 2009

Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months and their last primary molars before they turn 3. Your child will keep these "baby" teeth until age 10 or 12 making cleaning and maintaining those 20 teeth very important. A simple technique of dampening a small piece of textured gauze and wiping down gums after feeding could help children avoid dental health problems in the future. Other helpful tips for parents include: (1) Use just a wet toothbrush. (2) Children need fluoride in their water. (3) Don?t let your child fall asleep with a bottle or sippy cup unless it?s filled with water. (4) Plan your child's first dental trip at one year. (5) Start to floss once teeth are touching. (6) Remember that anything that can stain a white cotton T-shirt can stain teeth.

Learn more about military dental care on Military.com