Good oral hygiene is important to start at an early age. People usually think of a newborn as having no teeth. The 20 primary teeth that will erupt by age 2 1/2 are already present at birth in the baby's jawbones. Your child's primary teeth should not be neglected, because they guide the permanent teeth into place.

Bacteria should be removed by wiping the gums gently with a damp washcloth or gauze. When the teeth start coming in, the parent should begin daily brushing.

When teeth appear in the mouth, decay can occur. One serious form of tooth decay among infants and young children results from the bottle the child uses. Tooth decay can start from liquids containing sugars, such as milk, formula, fruit juice and other sweetened liquids. These sugars cause a plaque build-up that produces acids that attach to tooth enamel. This is how tooth decay can occur.

The following are tips on how to prevent tooth decay for your child.
* Brush your child's teeth when the first tooth erupts.
* Floss your child's teeth when all the primary teeth have erupted. This is usually by age 2 or 2 1/2.
* Never allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, fruit juices or sweetened liquids.
* If needed, give the child a clean pacifier recommended by your dentist or pediatrician. Never dip the pacifier in any sweet liquid.
* Make sure your child gets the fluoride needed for fighting tooth decay. Ask your dentist how your child can get the recommended amount of fluoride.
* Start dental visits between the ages of 6 and 12 months.
* A proper diet from the five major food groups is important.
* Limit snacking on foods high in sugar.
* A fever is not normal for a teething baby. If your infant has a fever while teething, call your doctor.
* Ask your dentist about sealants. You can teach your child proper dental habits from the beginning. It may prevent future dental problem from starting.

For more information contact the American Dental Association at (800) 621-8099.

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