Healthy teeth from the beginning
After a “tooth-friendly” diet with little sugar and acids, correct dental care is the second pillar of dental health. The first little teeth should stay healthy and nice for as long as possible, because healthy milk teeth are very important for the health of the adult second teeth that follow. Which is why you can’t start early enough with dental hygiene. We have put together some important tips here, but you should also ask your dentist.
There is no need to use toothpaste for the first few teeth. It is better to do without, because your little darling will not be able to spit it out after cleaning. Talk to your pediatrician about the use of toothpaste. S/he will be able to inform you about the right time for and choice of toothpaste.
Please also discuss the use of fluoride for stronger teeth with your pediatrician, s/he will best know what your child needs.
HiPP Tip 3 – Avoid constant sucking
Every drink can cause damage to teeth (tooth decay) if frequently or constantly sucked from a bottle – even water.
So:
- Make sure your child drinks in one go – until the thirst is quenched.
- Don’t give the baby the bottle to suck constantly, as a pacifier or as an aid to sleep.
- Hold the bottle yourself and don’t give it to the baby to hold.
- Get the baby used to drinking out of a cup from the 8th month.
HiPP Tip 4 – Don’t “snack” all the time
Don’t offer your child something to eat and drink around the clock. Especially at night the teeth should be left in peace because between meals the saliva repairs the dental enamel. This process is known as “remineralization” – dissolved minerals are re-installed. However, food carries saliva away with it and then it cannot repair the teeth. So only give food and drinks at set meal times and avoid “snacking” and meals at night.