Even though a baby's milk teeth will be replaced by permanent ones, you should do your best to take care of them. Milk teeth affect early speech development, the ability to eat a solid diet and the new replacement teeth.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure your baby's milk teeth are healthy:
- Don't give your baby sugary drinks or even milk after they've brushed their teeth at night
- Avoid baby foods sweetened with added sugar or concentrated fruit juice
- Sweetened fruit juices and squashes should not be given in babies bottles, as they encourage a sweet tooth and can contribute to decay
- Never dip a soother into anything sweet.
- Give baby food with plenty of calcium, vitamins and minerals to encourage healthy teeth to form.
- Use baby toothpaste and a specially designed toothbrush that has a small head and soft bristles.