When should dental care begin? As soon as you notice that a tooth has erupted is the correct answer. Babies have 20 teeth under their gums when they are born. These teeth can start to erupt anytime between 6 months and 12 months but can start as early as 4 months. You will notice the baby drooling and chewing more frequently. Your baby's first teeth play an important role in the health of their permanent teeth, so it is important to learn early on, how to care for these first teeth.

You won't need to use any toothpaste until their molars appear. Until then, just wipe the new teeth with a soft cloth dipped in clean water. It is good to get your baby used to someone touching the inside of his or her mouth. Make a game of cleaning your baby's teeth by playing popular games like "peek a boo" or "gotcha Ya" with plenty of tickling and when your baby laughs gently wipe the tooth. Cover your finger with the cloth, just incase the baby decides to try out the new chew cloth! You can also hold the baby on your lap while doing this to calm and reassure him or her. Once the molars appear use low-fluoride toothpaste or one specially made for babies and young children.

Safety Tips

Never allow a baby or small child to walk around with a toothbrush in their mouth.

Do not allow your baby or small child to swallow toothpaste.

Be sure to store the toothpaste in a cabinet that is well out of your child's reach.

Most young children require assistance while brushing until around age six. So continue to supervise how they are brushing and how often they brush to assure that their teeth are getting good dental hygiene. By age 6 your young child will need to brush at least twice a day, after each meal is preferred. This is a good time to start the habit of flossing to remove those particles between teeth. Good habits started while they are young can lead to a lifetime of good dental health.

Timing of First Dental Visit

When you see that first tooth is a good time to call your family dentist to find out when they schedule their first visit. The first visit will most likely be one to familiarize your child with the dentist. This friendly visit helps to alleviate any anxiety in child or parent. Unless your child has special circumstances, it is not necessary to take your child to a pediatric dentist, unless your dentist recommends that you do so. Your dentist can help you to monitor your child's mouth and also help you to set up good dental habits early. Your child will become more comfortable with the dentist if they are exposed early and often to the experience of seeing the dentist.

Pacifiers, Thumb Sucking and Bottles

Many parents are concerned about teeth becoming out of alignment due to the usage of pacifiers and bottles or from the habit of sucking on thumbs or fingers. The habit of pacifier sucking is easier to stop, because you can throw it away, not so with thumbs and fingers. Any habit can be altered or stopped by substituting the object with another healthier object. You can substitute items like teething biscuits, or chew toys when you observe the older baby or child sucking on pacifiers or thumbs/fingers. You should also plan on transferring bottle usage to sippy cups by age 1.

You know smoking is bad for you. It is a costly habit that affects not only your pocketbook, but your health as well. Besides your health, you can add your teeth to the reasons why you should not smoke. Consider the following problems smoking can cause with your oral health:

Smoking promotes a sticky tar deposits on your teeth, which leads to yellow and brown stains on your teeth. While this is not a severe problem, it is not attractive and makes your smile less than dazzling. Many times, these stains cannot be removed, even with a thorough cleaning from your dentist.

Smoking also delays the healing of your gums. This means that your gums are susceptible of developing serious gum disease, which can lead to painful oral lesions, bleeding of the gums and even tooth loss. Gum disease is a problem that is exacerbated by smoking.

Smoking and bad breath go hand in hand. When you smoke, you will have problems with bad breath and halitosis. You can brush, rinse with mouthwash and use mints and gum, but until you stop smoking, the problem will remain.

Smoking leads to a condition called "smokers palate", which is red inflammation on the roof of the mouth. This can make eating hot foods or drinking hot beverages painful. You might even find that when you smoke, you do not have much taste for foods. The taste of the tobacco masks the natural flavors of food.

Smoking also leads to gum recession, which can lead to serious problems with your teeth. This means that smoking (or even chewing tobacco) can cause the gums to recede along the top of your teeth at the roots. This can expose the root and lead to decay or tooth loss.

Smoking also leads to oral cancer. This is the most serious side effect when it comes to smoking and your oral care. Oral cancer is just as dangerous as any other type of cancer. In fact, over 75 percent of all oral cancer cases in America are associated with cigarette smoking and other tobacco use. Depending on how long you have smoked and how many cigarettes you smoke each day will determine your risk for developing oral cancer.

Because oral cancer is the most serious side effect of tobacco use, you should know the early symptoms and how to detect cancer. If you have swelling, growths or lumps or find red or white patches in your mouth, you should be screened for oral cancer right away. In addition, stay on the look out for bleeding, sores and difficulty swallowing and chewing.

You know how smoking cause problems with your teeth. Now you should know that kicking the smoking and tobacco habit can reverse these problems. In fact, if you stop using tobacco products, in ten years, your risk for developing oral cancer will decrease dramatically. If you are a smoker, consider stopping the habit. In addition, you should always be aware of the problems smoking and tobacco use can cause with your teeth and see your dentist on a regular basis.

It is shocking how many young children have more than 5 cavities by the time they are school age. Good dental hygiene is important at any age, but starting our children out at a young age developing good dental care habits is important for their future dental health. Habits started while we are young tend to stick with us into our adulthood. Parents who make brushing something that is fun and an encouraged part of their daily routine can expect their youngsters to continue good brushing habits as they age. Parents should also know that when they model good brushing habits, their children are more likely to respond favorably to establishing good dental habits themselves. Young children love to copy what they see their parents doing. Allow your child to see you brushing your teeth. Don't be surprised how much of an influence you have on your little one. Children learn through imitation.

There are many steps you can take to help prevent dental decay from forming in your child's mouth. These steps are simple to do and are easy to implement into your daily routine.

Step 1 – Limit the sugar in your child's diet by choosing foods and drinks carefully. Check labels before purchasing for sugar content. Look for these hidden sugars on the label: Sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltose and syrup

Step 2 – Limit sweets to special occasions instead of allowing children to consume them daily.

Step 3 – Offer snacks that are dental friendly like: cheese, fruit, raw vegetables, or nuts for children that are older. Offer milk (after 12 months) or water over soda or juice choices. Many packaged juices are high in sugar content, so check labels.

Step 4 – Never give a baby a bottle containing juice or milk to sleep with.

Step 5 – It is a bad idea to dip your baby's pacifier in honey or sugar

Step 6 – Our children are not born with "a sweet tooth" this is encouraged by the foods and beverages that we offer them. Choose your food options wisely right from the start and you will be helping your child to develop the ability to make good food choices that will last a lifetime.

Step 7 – Limit carbonated drinks. In 2002 a study showed that 45% of young children suffered erosion of tooth enamel with 19% having severe erosion that involved the dentine layer of the tooth. A contributing cause was determined through research to be the consumption of carbonated or (fizzy) beverages.

Step 8 – Encourage regular brushing times: upon rising, after meals, and as part of the bedtime routine.

Step 9 – Show your young child how to floss using kid-friendly floss. Your dental hygienist can help your child learn how to floss correctly.

Step 10 – Check with your dental office for the recommended schedule of visits and be sure that you make these appointments for your child. Your dentist and his/her staff are partners with you in keeping your child's teeth healthy. Make sure you ask questions and ask for help forming good dental habits at an early age.

Older adults can have teeth that last a lifetime if they took good care of their teeth and gums during the youth and adulthood. There is no time in life when you can relax about your oral care needs. Seniors can encounter special dental needs such as dentures, complications from the medications they take and changes in their mouth.
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Teething is a stressful and trying time for both parents and babies. Those teeth and gums hurt and babies cry to let their parents know. Frustrating parents sometimes feel helpless when their little ones start to teeth. The once sweet and mild mannered baby has suddenly changed into a drooling, whimpering mess. You can help your child and in at the same time, gain some sanity.

There will be no mistaking the signs of teething. Most often, the first sign is drooling. This usually starts at around four or five months of age and does not let up until the teething is over. Next, you will start to notice swollen gums. This normally starts on the bottom first, although every child can be different. You will be able to see the teeth bulging from right under the surface of the gum. Other signs of teething include fussiness, waking up in the middle of the night and chewing. You will notice that you child is putting everything in his or her mouth. Signs that are also normal may also include a low-grade fever, rash on the face and neck, coughing and diarrhea.

Here are some ways to help your teething child.

Teething Toys: There are many toys that are made just for the teething infant. These are usually made of a soft plastic and some can even be frozen. This is a time when you will want to make sure your child is not chewing on anything dangerous. You will notice that he or she will chew on everything from toys to their own fingers.

Frozen treats: Anything that is frozen will help your child feel better. The sensation feels really great on swollen gums. Do not give your child anything that he or she can choke on though. One great idea is to take a clean washcloth, get it wet and squeeze out the excess water, place it in a sandwich bag and freeze. After it is frozen, give it to your child to chew on. You can also give your baby Popsicles (you might want to remove the sticks), frozen teething toys and frozen bananas.

Teething Gel: Teething gels are another option for sore gums. There are plenty of over the counter medications that you can buy that come in gels, liquids or paste. These work to numb the gums, and will not have a lasting effect. Remember that these do not taste very good and that if you use too much, it can also numb the tongue and the lips. Try to use these sparingly.

Over the Counter Medication: You can safely use many over the counter medications for your child's teething. Most doctors recommend Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Just remember to always adhere to the dosing directions on the package and never give your child more medication just to ease the pain.

Teething is both an exciting and painful time for you and your child. It is your job to make sure your child is as comfortable as possible during this time.

You know you have sensitive teeth if you drink something or eat something cold and you get that ZING. You can also feel a sharp pain when you eat something sweet like icing or candy. It can even happen with something hot or sour. There can be several causes to this sensitivity and visiting your dentist is the best way to figure out what is causing your sensitivity.

The cause can be anything from a injury from biting down on something hard, grinding your teeth or clenching your teeth too tight. Some people experience sensitive teeth after having dental work like having a filling. Others can experience sensitivity when teeth have shifted and two are hitting each other. Some sensitivity will lessen or even disappear over time. Others like, when there is tooth trauma, will not stop until your dentist repairs the tooth. Before your dental appointment there are several things you can do at home to try to cope with the discomfort of sensitive teeth. After your dental appointment and if the dentist has determined that the sensitivity is from simple dental abrasion or from your gums receding; you can try the home remedies.

Desensitizing Toothpaste can be purchased over-the-counter in most drug stores, discount chain stores and grocery stores. This special type of toothpaste works by filling in tubules in the dentin.

Two Brands

Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength Plus Whitening

This toothpaste contains potassium nitrate, a substance that has been clinically proven to soothe nerve ends. It also helps by building an increased protection against that zing you feel because of your sensitive teeth. It has also been known to provide long-term relief with regular use. Has a minty flavor to it. It also whitens your teeth.

Sensodyne Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth, Extra Whitening

This brand proclaims to be the #1 desensitizing toothpaste recommended by dentists for over 20 years. The tube labeling says to use twice a day, in a manner like you would regular toothpaste. This toothpaste also contains Potassium nitrate. The label says that you should receive relief within two weeks.

Prevention

Fluoride Rinse can be used once a day. Do not swallow the rinse, just swish it around in your mouth and then spit it out. These rinses help to decrease the occurrence of dental cavities.

Keeping your teeth clean by using proper tooth brushing technique (not brushing too hard) and using a soft toothbrush. Making a habit of brushing with less pressure will decrease the chance of dental trauma.

If you chew tobacco snuff, you should stop. Chewing snuff can cause your gums to recede, can cause dental decay and mouth cancers.

How To Know When You Should See Your Dentist:

When your teeth are persistently sensitive to pressure.

When a tooth is consistently sensitive, you should see the dentist because it could mean that the pulp in that particular tooth is infected or possibly dying.

When you have tried some desensitizing toothpaste and there has not been any improvement in two weeks.

The sensitivity becomes a pain that lasts for more than one hour.

You notice that the gums around the tooth that is sensitive changes color.

You notice signs of obvious tooth decay.

Even though it may sound very odd and downright compelling, a lot of people actually try to extract their own teeth. Toothache pain can be very painful and very frustrating, making you try anything to get relief. Depending on how bad the pain is, you’ll be more than willing to do just about anything you can to get the pain to stop. Abscesses or really bad cavities are among the worst, as the pain never seems to let up - no matter what you do.
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Any time you hear the word "cancer", it is a scary thought. Cancer is very dangerous and it can happen to anyone. Oral cancer is just as dangerous as any other type of cancer and is most prevalent in smokers and tobacco users. If you are a smoker or use other types of tobacco, you should be aware of the signs of oral cancer.

Regular dental check ups are very important and this is especially true if you use tobacco. When you visit your dentist on a regular basis, you will have your teeth cleaned and x-rayed. In addition to your regular exam, your dentist will also look for signs of tooth decay and for signs of oral cancer. If you exhibit any of the following symptoms, then you should visit your dentist right away. Here is what you should look for:

Non-healing sores, ulcers or lesions: This is one of the most common symptoms of oral cancer. When you get any type of sore or lesion in your mouth that does not heal on its one after a couple of days, there is reason for concern. Mouth ulcers are very common, but it is not normal for them to last for more than a few days. If you find that you mouth is sore and red due to oral sores, then you should make an appointment with your dentist.

White or yellow patches in the mouth: If you look in your mouth and notice patches of white or yellow areas, this could be a sign of oral cancer. Red places in the mouth are more common, but you need to be especially wary of white or dark places in your mouth.

There are other signs of oral cancer, but these alone are not always reason for major concern, unless you have more than one sign. These signs include:

Loose teeth: any time you have tooth that is loose, you should see your dentist.

Bleeding gums: many people have bleeding gums and while this is not normal, if you have any of the other signs of oral cancer, it is something to worry about.

Rough patches: if you experience a rough patch of skin on your tongue or roof of your mouth and you do not remember burning your mouth on food, then this could spell trouble.

Bad breath: Smoking and tobacco causes bad breath, but if you have chronic bad breath, coupled with other oral cancer signs, you need to see your dentist.

Feeling of something caught in your throat: this could be a sign of cancer as well.

Oral cancer is a serious medical problem and if you experience any of these signs or symptoms, you need to schedule an exam with your dentist. Your dentist can perform an exam to determine whether or not you have oral cancer. It is important to remember that oral cancer spreads quickly and many people will not survive more than five years after being diagnosed. Early detection and prevention is key.

There are many myths about how pregnancy affects your dental health. One widely circulated myth warns expectant mothers that she will lose a tooth for each pregnancy. While this is certainly not true, you can expect some changes in your dental health and most are caused by simple fluctuations of hormones. Here are some ways that pregnancy affects your teeth and what you can do to make sure you have a healthy smile after the baby arrives.

First, you should remember that when you are pregnant, you can still visit your dentist, just make sure you let him or her know that you are expecting. However, your dentist will probably not perform any x-rays or dental surgery on you while you are expecting. If x-rays are a necessity, your dentist will place a special apron over you to protect your baby. Instead, you will still be able to visit your dentist for regular check ups and cleaning and these visits are just as important while you are pregnant. Some experts say that you can have simple dental procedures, such as fillings done only after the first trimester of pregnancy.

Morning sickness can be one reason why your teeth are not as clean and fresh as they once were before you were pregnant. Many women suffer through a strong gag reflex during this time and brush their teeth simply makes them fell sick. Instead of skipping your daily brushing routine, you should still try to rinse your mouth with warm water and at least rub toothpaste over your teeth. When the feeling of sickness subsides, go ahead and brush and floss as you normally would.

Another concern when it comes to dental health and pregnancy is food cravings. Many women will crave sweets and salty foods, which can lead to tooth decay. Late night snacks without brushing can also cause you to have problems with your teeth. Be aware of what you are eating and if it is at all possible, make sure you brush or at least rinse with water after snacking. Remember that foods such as crackers and raisins, even though they are healthy for your body, can stick in your teeth and cause problems with decay.

While you are pregnant, you want to make sure you are keeping your teeth as strong as possible. Calcium is one way you can do this. When you are expecting, it is recommended that you 1100 milligrams of calcium each day and if you are breastfeeding, you should take 1200 milligrams. If you can get that much on your diet alone, there are plenty of calcium supplements that are perfectly safe to take when you are pregnant. Also, remember that the calcium is important for the baby's teeth, as well.

Caring for your teeth is an especially important concern during pregnancy. Take the time to visit your dentist on a regular basis and to take care of your teeth at home. If you experience any difficulties with sore or bleeding gum, or other dental issues, you should always visit with your dentist.

Gum disease does not just happen all at once or sneak up on a person out of the blue. Gum disease is a problem that goes through a variety of stages and can start mild and then can become more serious and chronic as time passes. That is why it is so important to catch it at its earliest stage, in order to prevent further damage to the teeth, gums and surrounding bone.
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