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Baby Teeth Need Special Care

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@tampatrib.com

Published: February 14, 2009

Baby teeth may soon fall out, but they are essential for setting the stage for what's yet to come.

Allowing children's dental issues to fester can result in pain, malnutrition, speech development problems and damage to self-esteem, warns Ovidio Penalver, a Puyallup, Wash., pediatrician.

Experts, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, now urge parents to have their babies' teeth examined by a dentist or pediatrician as soon as teeth appear, and at least by age 1.

Here are some additional tips for parents:

•Beginning at birth, wipe baby gums with a washcloth or piece of gauze after feeding.

•When a first tooth shows, around 6 months of age, start brushing it with a soft, baby-sized toothbrush.

•Use a rice-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Put the child's head in your lap to make brushing easier.

•Avoid constant snacking on sugary, sticky or starchy foods. Offer healthy snacks such as cheese, fruit or vegetables.

•Don't let your child sip sweet liquids throughout the day.

•If you put baby to bed with a bottle, fill it with water.

•Watch for white spots on the teeth or changes to gums. These can be early signs of problems.

The News Tribune of Tacoma, Wash.

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