T for Tooth

When it comes to taking care of your newborn's tiny parts, one of the few things you don't have to worry about just yet is his non-existent teeth, right? Wrong. Go ahead and add dental hygiene to the lengthy baby maintenance list if you want your little guy's heart-melting smile to only become brighter as the years pass by.

Dentists recommend that you start your baby on a daily oral care regimen long before his pearly whites make their first appearance. Follow these toothy tips to make your baby's smile really shine:

• Never let your baby fall asleep with a bottle of juice or milk in his mouth. Try a pacifier or bottle of water instead.
• After each feeding, wipe your baby's gums with a clean, wet washcloth or approved oral hygiene tool for infants.
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• Once your baby's first teeth come in, gently brush them with a baby toothbrush twice a day (give his tongue a quick swipe too, if you can manage it!). 
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Find out more info on caring for your baby's smile at dentistry.com.