The key to healthy smiles: start early

Children with healthy mouths chew more easily and gain more nutrients. They have more confidence in their appearance. And their good oral health contributes to good overall health.

• Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft wet cloth after each feeding.
• Don’t let your baby go to sleep with a bottle or sippy cup.
• Ask your baby’s primary care provider about fluoride.
• Brush that first new tooth gently with a baby toothbrush.

Visit the dentist by the first birthday

Get a first dental appointment within six months of the first baby tooth, or at least by your child’s first birthday. The dentist can also tell you how you can help protect your child’s teeth and mouth.

Where do you get dental care for your child?

Dental services are not covered by CareOregon. If you are an Oregon Health Plan member, dental care is provided through a dental care organization (DCO). Look on your DMAP Medical Care ID form for the name and phone number of your DCO. Routine dental care is not covered if you have a CareOregon Advantage Star plan.

Here is some more information about infants and dental health:

“Zeroing in on Little Mouths,” a story by Stephanie Innes in The Arizona Daily Star

“Ailing Teeth and Gums Can Affect Whole Body,” a story in The Free Lance-Star by Lauren Orsini