Chelsea Dental Aesthetics

Josh Blaustein giving brushing demonstration to his classmates at preschool as his proud father, Dr. David Blaustein, looks on.

Have you ever wondered when your toddler should visit the dentist for the first time, which type of "sippy" cups are best for your child's dental health, or how you can best keep your toddler's gums clean and healthy?

Your questions about your child's dental care are important. As your child's biggest role model, you establish the good dental care habits that will lead to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Explore these frequently-asked questions about children's dental care:

When should I schedule my child's first dental appointment?

Schedule your child's first dental appointment at age three (unless a dental concern arises sooner). At age two, your toddler can accompany you to your routine hygiene appointments. Your child can sit on your lap and become familiar with the sights and sounds of going to the dentist.

What kind of "sippy" cup should I buy for my child?

You have several acceptable options to choose from in selecting a sippy cup for your child - however, you should keep a few thoughts in mind:

Sippy cups with valves and mechanisms that don't allow the liquid to flow freely can be difficult to clean properly, allowing bacteria to form that ultimately gets passed on to your child. Consider using these types of cups for water only, and make sure the valves are removed and properly cleaned with soap and hot water after each use. Most cups and valves are also dishwasher-safe and valves can be placed in netted bag inside the dishwasher.

You may want to use free-flowing sippy cups, or a regular cup with a straw for drinks like juice and milk. You should never allow your child to walk around sipping on sugary drinks over a long period of time. Instead, allow them to have these drinks in a single sitting. If you want to give your child a drink to hold for longer than a single sitting, such as a drink in their crib overnight, stick to water.

Is it safe to share drinks or to use the same eating utensils as my child?

Remember that dental decay is an infectious, transmissible disease. Avoid testing the temperature of your infant's bottle with your mouth; do not share utensils; and, resist cleaning pacifiers or bottle nipples by putting them into your mouth. Help stop the transmission of bacteria that causes tooth decay (cavities).

We use bottled water for everything. Is my child getting the fluoride she needs?

If you use bottled water for drinking or cooking, consider using filtered tap water or bottled water made for babies so that children receive water that includes fluoride. Drugstores and baby supply stores sell Nursery Purified Waterr.

How can I protect my child's teeth from sugary drinks?

Limit your toddler to no more than four-to-six ounces of sweetened beverages per day (including juice), and don't allow him to walk around with his cup full of juice, milk, or soda. Also, try not to put your child to bed with a bottle - especially if it is full of juice, milk, or soda.

Is it "ok" to use pacifiers?

There are pacifiers that are safe for your baby's developing teeth and gums. Check the labeling; and, never dip a pacifier into honey or anything sweet before giving it to a baby.

How can I monitor my child's dental health?

First, be familiar with the normal appearance of your child's gums and teeth. Routinely lift your toddler's lips to check for suspicious, small white or brown spots on his or her teeth.

What do I do if my child is teething?

Watch for signs of teething in your baby. Many children experience drooling (which can lead to facial rash), irritability, rubbing of their ears, trouble sleeping, and even fever. You can soothe babies' teething discomfort with the proper dosage of Infant Tylenol, cold (but not frozen) teething toys, Boiron Homeopathic Camilia Teething Relief drops, and Hylands Teething Gel.

Teething children enjoy learning to brush, while also alleviating pain, with teething toothbrushes. They are colorful and entertaining for toddlers and come in a variety of styles. PHBr is an ADAr-accredited company that offers a multitude of dental care products for you and your family. Visit www.phbinc.com to view assorted toothbrushes, or call 1-800-553-1440.

What should I do for my child before his teeth come in?

Clean your child's gums before all their teeth have erupted. This can be easily done by gently massaging their gum tissues with a clean moistened cloth. Or, try Xyli-Tots Oral Wipes by CariFree for your infant or toddler. Xyli-tots contain xylitol, which helps neutralize the acids in the mouth after feeding. Try one of the many fun flavors, including Watermelon Wiggles and Grape Giggles. They come in quick and easy, disposable packets - perfect for moms on the go.

How can I encourage good dental care habits in my child?

Let your toddler watch you brush your teeth. Show her how much fun it is, and when she is old enough, let her hold her own toothbrush and practice. Singing a song or saying a rhyme can make teeth brushing fun and can help your child learn to brush more thoroughly. You should brush your toddler's teeth with a soft bristled toothbrush twice a day (once after breakfast and again before bedtime). Use only fluoride-free toothpaste until the age of two. After the age of two, brush your toddler's teeth twice-a-day with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time. Keep your child from swallowing excessive toothpaste by using a minimal amount, which will help prevent damage to the adult teeth that are still growing under the gums. Teach your child to "spit out" the toothpaste as soon as possible after brushing.

What toothbrush is right for my child?

Try a variety of children's toothbrushes to make the experience fun for your toddler! Choose from toothbrushes with popular characters that "talk" to your toddler and encourage him to brush. You may want to try the newly released Sonicare toothbrush for kids (for ages 3+ or younger with supervision). The toothbrush includes a kid's timer to help train your toddler to brush for two minutes each time. Toddlers under the age of three will enjoy the sound and the vibrating brush, which will also assist in relieving the discomfort associated with teething.

You and your toddler are very important to the team at Chelsea Dental Aesthetics. Experience a dental team focused on creating a positive and fun dental environment for your child, and get to know a dental family that utilizes the latest technology and techniques available in today's dentistry. You and your toddler can enjoy all of the services Chelsea Dental has to offer, including general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry.