Caring for Baby Teeth

Baby teeth are as important to babies and children as permanent teeth are to older children and adults. Not only do these first teeth enable your child to chew, make sounds and speak clearly, they help maintain the shape of his mouth and face as he grows, and save space for future permanent teeth.¹

If a baby tooth is lost too early because of an accident or poor dental health, nearby teeth can shift or move into the vacant space, giving the permanent tooth less room to grow.¹

 

To help keep your child’s baby teeth healthy, start brushing his teeth when the first tooth appears and teach him to do it himself as soon as he’s ready. Because it may take some practice before he can reach all the areas of his mouth with a toothbrush, you may want to supervise at least one of his two daily brushing sessions.¹

 

 

 

Fast Fluoride Facts

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many sources of water throughout the world. At proper levels, fluoride helps protect teeth by strengthening the hard outer layer, or tooth enamel. The Canadian Dental Association says using fluoridated water and fluoride products are good ways to help maintain oral health.^2,3 

 

There are several ways to make sure your toddler gets the right amount of fluoride. The most common is fluoride toothpaste. Your local water supply may contain the appropriate level of fluoride for optimal dental health, but if it doesn’t, your dentist may suggest a fluoride supplement.^2,3  Caregivers should supervise children under 6 years of age when brushing their teeth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

¹“Healthy Living," http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/oral-bucco/care-soin/child-enfant-eng.php

²"Fluoride & Your Child,” http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/cfyt/dental_care_children/fluoride.asp

³While the Canadian Dental Association discusses intake levels of fluoride in drinking water, this organization does not sponsor, approve, certify or endorse Nursery® Water.