Caring for kid's teeth Published Feb. 3, 2009 By Capt. Zachary Perry Minot Air Force Base Dental Clinic MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- February is National Children's Dental Health Month and a great opportunity to help kids maintain a wonderful and healthy smile for a lifetime. Proper dental care begins before a baby's first tooth appears in the mouth. Begin by wiping a damp wash cloth over the baby's gums after each feeding, which will help prevent harmful bacteria from accumulating. Because teeth are susceptible to decay as soon as they appear in the mouth, it is important to brush them with a soft child's toothbrush or rub the teeth using a soft gauze pad. A leading cause of tooth decay among young children is baby bottle tooth decay. This happens when infants drink from a bottle containing sugary liquids, and then the bottle is left in a baby's mouth during naptime or at night. Long- term exposure to the sugars and acid in these liquids can cause decay and discoloration around the teeth. Severe cases can result in the need to pull all the front teeth until permanent teeth grow in. A good way to prevent baby bottle tooth decay is to clean the child's teeth after each feeding or use a bottle filled with only water at bedtime. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the child's first visit to the dental office should take place by the child's first birthday. Children usually need dental visits more often than adults because children's teeth have a thinner layer of enamel, so decay can spread more quickly. During the visit the dentist will help explain the importance of brushing and flossing and perform an exam. By age three children should be brushing their own teeth under parental supervision and by age eight should be able to brush and floss by themselves, with the parent only checking occasionally. Use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for toddlers and always make sure the child spits the toothpaste out instead of swallowing. A child's permanent teeth start to grow in around age six. A dentist or a registered dental hygienist can apply sealants to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Sealants are a thin protective coating that helps seal out decay, and involve no drilling or discomfort. Everyone can help maintain a child's healthy teeth and gums through a well- balanced diet. Try to limit snacks containing sugars or starch, which can lead to decay. It is never too early or late to get involved in a child's dental health; A parent's involvement plays an important role to ensure the child has a healthy smile all year long. For more information regarding dental concerns or coverage, contact the TRICARE Dental Program at 1-800-866-8499, or log on to www.ucci.com.