How to keep your kids cavity-free

Scary stat: Tooth decay is the most chronic childhood disease in the U.S., far more prevalent than asthma and hay fever. But the good news is that this condition can be completely prevented with early and regular visits to the dentist and proper hygiene at home. Here’s more on dental care for kids, as well as ways to keep your little one’s smile as healthy as it is cute!

BABY THOSE TEETH

Sure, those baby teeth are temporary, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe from permanent problems.To keep those itty bitty biters clean,  parents should start swiping out infant’s mouths along the gum line with a wet washcloth from day one, which gets them used to having their mouths cleaned after eating. And as teeth start to come in, break out the brush—and the floss. Also, it’s key to be super-cautious of the contents of your baby’s bottle, especially at bedtime. Giving kids juice or milk at night is a big risk, as it can lead to decay. If child needs to drink at night, stick to water.

THE FIRST VISIT
And just as it’s never too soon to establish a hygiene routine with your child, experts say trips to the dentists should also start early. Plan to set up your child’s first appointment as soon as her first tooth erupts or no later than the first birthday (and then every six months after that).

Aside from a meet-and-greet with the dentist, standard first exams include an overview of the child’s health history and diet, as well as a thorough exam (parents will likely hold infants and toddlers during this part).

FINDING THE RIGHT DENTIST FOR YOU
Hoping your kid’s first visit will go just as smooth? Look for a dentist who specializes in pediatric care. Plus, a family-focused dentist is likely to offer a fun office environment (a la the treasure chest and giveaways) and hire staff who can comfort your child and handle her many moods.

So, Check out las Vegas 4 Kids' Directory of Pediatric Dentists in your area.