Dear Nida Saleem  

February is Children's Dental Health Month.
 
One of the earliest threats to a child's oral health comes from baby bottle tooth decay.  Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when children's teeth are exposed to fluids, such as breast milk, formula, and juice, for prolonged periods of time.  It is important to wipe a child's gums and teeth with a clean soft cloth immediately after bottle feeding or breastfeeding.
 
Here are a few tips on prevention:

• Do not let your baby sleep with a bottle.
• Make sure your child sees a pediatric dentist by the time they are 1.
• Start cleaning your baby's teeth as soon as they come in with a soft infant toothbrush.  Do not use fluoridated paste until at least 2 years of age.
• Encourage your baby to start using a cup by 12-14 months.
• Never offer your child juice in a bottle. Have them drink juice from a cup.
• Some parents dip pacifiers in sweet liquid to get a child to take the pacifier.  This can also lead to decay.

A common misconception has been that since a child's first set of teeth is not permanent, there is no impact on their oral health if decay occurs.  This is not true.  Baby teeth are important in helping babies chew their food, learn to speak properly, and hold a place for adult teeth to come in where they belong. 

By following these few simple tips, you can help to ensure that your child begins the path to a lifetime of good oral health.