Dental care for babies

Help your baby have a beautiful smile.

Babies can form dental problems very early, so it’s important to take care of your baby's teeth right away.

Clean your baby's teeth

When your baby gets teeth, wipe them with a soft cloth or brush them every day using a soft baby toothbrush.

Prevent baby bottle cavities

Do not let your baby go to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, or formula. The sugar in these drinks will stay on the baby’s teeth all night. This can cause tooth decay and cavities. Also, do not fill your baby’s bottle with sugar water or soda.

Teething

Your baby may want something to bite or suck on while teeth are coming in. It is best to give the baby a teething ring, pacifier, or a bottle filled with cold water. Never give your baby anything to suck that was dipped in juice or sweet drinks.

First visit to the dentist

You should take your baby to the dentist when the first tooth comes in or by his or her first birthday. Early dental care will help your baby have a beautiful smile before problems start.

Switching from bottle to cup

Start teaching your baby to use a cup at around 6 to 9 months old. By 12 to 14 months, he or she should be using a cup instead of a bottle.

Thumb sucking

It is common for babies to suck their thumbs. However, this should stop by age 2. If your child keeps sucking his or her thumb throughout childhood, it can cause crooked teeth and bite problems.

If you need help finding a dentist, call Keystone First Member Services at 1-800-521-6860 (TTY 1-800-684-5505). You can also go to Find a Provider, then choose Dental under Provider Type.