- After each feeding, by bottle or spoon,
clean the gum tissue and any teeth. Removing residual milk and bacteria
will help reduce the risk of developing tooth decay in the future.
- Never let your baby fall asleep with a
bottle that contains milk or juice. The repeated incidence of sugar on
the teeth produces acid that attacks the tooth’s surface resulting in
tooth decay.
- Never give your child soda. Soda has no
nutritional value and can only cause obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay
if the habit is continued.
- Feed your child fruit (pureed or finely
chopped) instead of juice. Whole fruit provides more fiber and
additional nutrients that juice can not.
- Water should be the only liquid given
between meals and at bedtime. Not only does water help dilute sugar and
food that may be left in the mouth, but it is the healthiest and most
cost effective means of rehydrating their body.
- The city of Green Bay's water is
fluoridated, but if you live outside of the Green Bay city limits or
utilize well water you should discuss with your pediatrician the
importance of a fluoride prescription for your child. The Brown County Health Department provides well water analysis - drinking water for infants test for a small fee.
- Take your baby for their first visit to
the dentist by their first birthday. Your dentist will examine your
baby’s mouth and give any recommendations that may enhance your baby’s
oral health now and in the future.
