You have the power to prevent cavities.

Did you know that you could be passing cavity-causing bacteria on to your baby? Babies are not born with the germs that cause cavities - they acquire them from grown-ups. This means dental disease can start with a baby’s first tooth.

• Avoid sharing saliva with your baby. Don’t put things in your mouth before you put them in your baby’s mouth.
• Do not share spoons, forks or cups.
• Start protecting your child’s smile early -- the first trip to the dentist should take place by their first birthday
• Put only formula, milk or water in a baby bottle -- no juice or sweet drinks.
• Don’t dip pacifiers in honey or sugar, and don’t clean them with your mouth.
• Never leave your child unattended with a baby bottle, especially at bedtime.
• Wean your child from the bottle by one year of age.
• Start taking care of your baby’s teeth from day one:
  • Before your baby has teeth, you should clean the gums with a clean, damp washcloth both morning and night.
  • When teeth first appear, you can begin brushing teeth with a small, soft toothbrush and an appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day.

Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease in the United States – yet oral health problems are nearly 100% preventable. Start these good oral health practices from the very beginning of your baby’s life, and help to avoid significant problems down the road.

You have the power to prevent cavities!

Download a printable brochure of infant oral health tips.

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