Is dental care important during pregnancy?

Dental care is important during this period, as hormonal changes can affect some women's dental health. Therefore, it is advisable to visit your dentist during pregnancy, as you may require closer attention during this time. However, your dentist may recommend that certain treatment should be left until after the birth of your child.

At what age should I take my baby to the dentist?

It is advisable to take your child to the dentist at the age of 6 months for a check-up, although you could discuss this with your dentist to see what they advise.

Do babies need to take fluoride supplements?

This is an issue that should be raised with your dentist, as fluoride is beneficial in helping to strengthen teeth. Your dentist will recommend when to start using fluoride supplements if this is necessary, although, you can start to use them after 6 months. Check with your dentist first, as some water supplies naturally contain fluoride.

When should I expect my baby to start teething?

Teeth usually start to appear in a babyıs mouth between the age of six months and one year. By the age of 3 years, most children will have all twenty "milk" teeth. This can be a painful experience for some children, although there are gels and teething rings that can be used to help ease the discomfort. Ask your dentist for specific advice, as the degree of discomfort varies.

Is there a certain way that I should clean my babyıs teeth?

You should start to clean your baby's teeth as soon as teeth begin to appear. You should use a small, soft nylon bristle toothbrush with a very small pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Cradle your child's head in one hand and gently massage the toothbrush around the teeth and gums. You should clean your child's teeth at least once a day, until they can effectively do this themselves.

Can it affect my child's teeth if they suck their thumb or a dummy?

This can have a detrimental affect on the alignment of your child's teeth, if this behaviour progresses over a number of years. This may result in corrective treatment being required as the child gets older. If the habit persists, discuss this with your dentist.