When should bottle-feeding be stopped? A: Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age.
Q: When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth? A: The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush and water. Remember that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively. Unless it is advised by your child’s pediatric dentist, do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 2-3. Q: Why do children suck on fingers, pacifiers or other objects? A: This type of sucking is completely normal for babies and young children. It provides security. For young babies, it’s a way to make contact with and learn about the world. In fact, babies begin to suck on their fingers or thumbs even before they are born. Q: Are these habits bad for the teeth and jaws? A: Yes. Some children repeatedly suck on a finger, pacifier or other object over long periods of time, which causes the upper front teeth not come in properly or have an open bite. For most children, we recommend encouraging these habits cease by age three.
