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Baby teeth may not be permanent, but it is important to take care of them because they serve as placeholders for adult teeth. If they develop cavities or need to be extracted, it can affect how the permanent teeth erupt and may even lead to a crooked or misaligned smile. To take care of your child’s mouth properly, it’s important to educate yourself, and you can do so with the help of La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry. Below, the Wisconsin pediatric dentists share a few details you should know about baby teeth.

3 Tips on Caring for Baby Teeth

1. Regular Brushing Should Start Immediately

You should start brushing your children’s teeth as soon as they erupt. Your pediatric dentist can recommend an appropriate toothpaste that contains fluoride, which you can apply using a special rubber sleeve that slips over one finger. Once more teeth erupt, you can switch to using a tiny toothbrush.

2. Thumb-Sucking Should Stop at a Reasonable Age

pediatric dentistMany children suck their thumb to soothe themselves. Although this habit is harmless for toddlers, it can alter the shape of the mouth as it develops, especially in older children. Kids who suck their thumb beyond the age of four or five may need orthodontic treatment or even jaw surgery to realign the mouth.

3. The First Dental Appointment Should Happen by the First Birthday

You should schedule your child’s first dental appointment after the first tooth pushes through their gums. If no teeth have erupted by their first birthday, make an appointment with a pediatric dentist anyway. They will assess your little one’s oral health and confirm everything is developing as it should.

If it’s time for your kid’s first dental checkup, trust La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry to make it an easy experience. Their friendly team will put your toddler at ease from the moment you enter the office and advise you on how to take care of your child’s teeth moving forward. Learn more about the pediatric dentists by visiting their website, and call (608) 782-4054 to make an appointment.

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