Your baby's development seems to happen so quickly. It is important to make sure that your baby is growing up in a healthy way and reaching all of the important developmental milestones. As a parent, it is extremely important to make sure that your baby's oral health is on the right track so that they can grow up with a beautiful smile. Here are three ways to prepare your baby for a future with a healthy smile.

Do not share eating utensils with your baby.

Your baby is naturally curious about what is on your plate. You teach your baby about new foods by letting them sample some of your own meals; however, you need to be careful about the way you share new foods with your baby. A dangerous bacteria called Streptococcus mutans can be transmitted via saliva and increase your baby's risk of developing cavities. The risk for transmission increases if you already suffer from dental caries. You can limit your chances of transmitting this harmful bacteria to your baby by having separate sets of eating utensils, not sharing drinks, and avoiding blowing on food to cool it off.

Schedule your baby's first dentist appointment by their first birthday.

The American Dental Association recommends scheduling your baby's first dentist appointment by their first birthday or within six months of getting their first tooth. Getting your baby into the dentist this early in their childhood carries many benefits. For one, the dentist is able to evaluate your baby's oral health and help you to adjust oral hygiene techniques and diet to keep their primary teeth from developing cavities. Further, your baby will become familiar with the dentist early on and will be more likely to feel comfortable getting teeth cleanings as they progress through childhood. It is important to build trust and comfort early on.

Model healthy behaviors by brushing your teeth with your baby.

You are the first example that your baby has to learn from. They pick up their language, diet, and habits by observing your behaviors. You can start modeling healthy behaviors for your baby by including them in your oral hygiene routine. Let your baby see that brushing and flossing is a normal part of everyday life. You can also start brushing your baby's gums with a soft toothbrush and warm water as soon as they start teething. This will help keep their gums healthy as their first teeth erupt.

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