Baby teeth don’t last forever, but they need just as much cleaning and care as adult teeth. Neglecting them can cause cavities and lifelong trouble.

Before the first tooth appears, get babies used to having their gums cleaned. Run a wet washcloth or a finger brush around their mouth. Once the first tooth comes in, pay even closer attention. To help protect your child’s teeth:

• Clean your infant’s teeth with a children’s toothbrush and water.
• Take your child to dentist about 6 months after the first tooth comes in, or at age 2.
• Add a pea-sized dab of toothpaste once your child is age 2. He or she shold be able to spit out the paste without swallowing it.
• Start to floss when 2 teeth touch.Don’t put your child to bed with a bottle filled with anything but water. Even milk has sugar in it.
• Encourage your child to drink from a cup by his or her fist birthday. Extended use of a bottle can increase the risk for tooth decay.