Practical Guide on your Baby's First Visit to the Dentist

A baby should see a dentist by age 1, says Dr. Bessie Buendia, a pediatrician. Some parents put off visiting the dentist since baby's milk teeth will fall off anyway. But starting good oral care early is best.

What you can do:

1. See a pediatric dentist, specifically. Ask your pediatrician for referrals. A pediatric dentist usually has a more child friendly clinic, with toys or even television on the ceiling to keep your child entertained during check ups.
2. Tell your child about the visit and what to expect (even if you think your baby doesn't understand you yet). Assure him that the dentist will take good care of him.
3. Be sure he has no cracked lips or mouth sore because oral inspection may cause pain.

Ten Foods That Dentists Hate

These are the ten foods dentists hate because they are sticky or sugary. Some of it get stuck between teeth or lower pH levels in the mouth. So if your kids eat them, be sure he brushes well after wards.

• Gummy candy(even vitamins)

• Caramel

• Taffy

• Carbonated drinks

• Fruit drinks with high fructose corn syrup

• Bubble gum (with sugar)

• Raisins

• Potato chips

• Hard candy
  

• Honey