A general and cosmetic dentist based in Jamestown, North Carolina, J. Michael Puckett received his DDS from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry. In addition to working with adult patients in his practice, J. Michael Puckett, DDS, often helps new parents practice good oral hygiene with their babies and toddlers.
As with patients of all ages, the primary goal of oral hygiene in babies and toddlers is the removal of plaques and prevention of tooth decay. Tooth decay often occurs as a result of the sugars in formula, milk, and juice, particularly when they pool in the baby’s mouth at bedtime. Instead, parents can use a bottle filled with water at bedtime, which carries much less risk of damaging developing teeth. After age three, parents should also gently discourage babies from sucking habits, which can cause structural dental issues.
Parents should brush their baby’s teeth gently, using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Before baby teeth begin poking through the gums, parents can use a moist gauze pad to clean the area around the teeth and gums. Finally, parents should bring their children in for their first dental visit before the age of one.
