DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My 7-month-old daughter recently got her first tooth. She likes to chew on her teething ring. I want to start good dental habits early and create a routine of brushing her teeth twice a day. When should I introduce a toothbrush so she can get comfortable with it? Do you have any other tips for establishing good oral hygiene early?
ANSWER: Dental infections are one of the most common infections in children. Even though dentistry has come a long way with the latest dental advancements, you still have to play an active role in your own dental care — and your children's.
Children who have decay in their baby teeth are more likely to have decay in their adult teeth. Oral health is whole-person health, and untreated dental disease has been linked to stroke, heart disease and diabetes in adulthood.
