Right from the very beginning oral hygiene for babies is very important.
Although they might not have to seek dental care for some time, cleaning their mouths even before teeth appear must be done.
This can be done with a warm damp cloth after each feeding which prevents the growth of bacteria.
The most popular problem with oral hygiene with babies is that their mouths are cleaned correctly and they may form a yeast infection in their mouth also known as Thrush.
This is caused by Candida and is known for its telltale signs of white patches that appear on the tongue and inside of the cheeks that cannot be wiped away and the presence of pain while they are feeding.
As soon as the baby starts teething, which generally happens between three and six months of age, the teeth should be cleaned with great care.
Massaging the gums with a warm wet cloth not just cleans the gums and teeth but can ease the pain of teething.
For older toddlers, toothbrushes can be purchased as age appropriate as well as toothpaste that is better suited for their taste buds and for the strength required.
For those who are concerned about the presence of fluoride there are now toothpastes that don't contain this chemical.
For information regarding taking your child to visit the dentist, you are recommended to give the office of the dentist a call.
Some will only see children above a certain age, for example, age three and others a little older.
It varies between practices but it is not usually a problem.
It is based on whether the equipment and materials they have are suitable for toddlers.
Babies' and toddlers' oral hygiene is very important not just for their health but in teaching them how to take care of their mouths for when they get older.
Ask your dentist for advice in teaching children how to clean their teeth regularly as they grow up.