Dental health during the teen years offers another set of challenges. For most parents, this doesn’t come as a big surprise. A dizzying number of changes strike during these formative years, and parents often experience a few frustrations along the way.

Teens listen more than we realize, and pestering parents can make a tremendous difference in the dental future of your young adult. You might feel like you are nagging, but believe it or not, the constant reminders to brush, floss, and eat well will sink in. Don’t underestimate any encouragement given to help your teen avoid the long-term effects of cavities and gum inflammation.

Preventive visits every six months provide us with an opportunity to coach your teen and reinforce the efforts you’re making with them. Sometimes the rapport we establish in a professional, yet friendly, setting proves especially effective.

Care for baby teeth should begin as soon as the first tooth appears. We recommend that you bring your child in for an exam no later than his or her first birthday. Regular six-month checkups will put kids on a schedule like most adults, establishing a routine that will hopefully last a lifetime.

The following early steps can help guard your child against tooth decay, even before their first dental visit:

• Your baby’s teeth should always be rinsed with water or wiped with a damp cloth after feeding, especially before they fall asleep. Milk or formula residue left in the mouth can encourage decay even in the youngest patients.

• Try to wean your child off bottle feeding by their first birthday. This helps avoid decay and reduces the chance of developing jaw problems from excessive sucking.

• Begin brushing as soon as your child’s first tooth appears. Even if it’s barely poking through the gum, a tooth can develop decay if not cleaned properly. Start by brushing with a soft bristled brush and water. Ask Dr. Y or your child’s hygienist when it’s ok to begin using a small amount of toothpaste.

• Help your child brush and remember that kids don’t have the dexterity to clean their teeth on their own until after they can tie their shoes.

• Don’t give bottles filled with sugary drinks or milk before bedtime.

• If you do choose to offer sugary beverages, have your child use a straw, so the teeth have less contact with the liquid.

• Try to limit the overall sugary foods your child eats and drinks.