Canker Sores: They appear as small white or gray ulcers inside the mouth, usually around the inside of the cheek, lip, or gum. There can be only one or several and may often return. They are caused by a number of reasons including fatigue, stress, bacteria, viruses, or allergies.

Cold Sores: Also called fever blisters or Herpes Simplex. They come in groups of fluid filled blisters around the lips and mouth, and sometimes around the nose and chin. You must be careful if you have a cold sore because they are very contagious if caused by the herpes virus type 1. Once you have a cold sore outbreak, the virus stays in your blood and can cause occasional outbreaks.

Leukoplakia: This comes in a thick, white patch around the inside of the cheek, gum, or tongue They are caused by excess cell growth and can be common among smokers. These patches can progress to cancer so it is important to see your dentist immediately if you find this patch in your mouth.

Candidiasis: Also called moniliasis or oral thrush and is a fungal infection. Denture wearers may experience this condition as well as children, elderly, or those with weak immune systems.

When your child’s first tooth appears, you should generally schedule a dentist appointment within 6 months to a year. Dental education is very important, no matter how young your child is. If they have teeth, proper oral, dental, and gum health is extremely necessary. This will prevent diseases and infections from occurring. The initial appointment is not only for your child, but it is very necessary for the parent to understand the importance of childhood dental health, too.

Nutrition, diet, and feeding all play a role in the health of your child’s teeth. Unlimited consumption of sugary liquids, beverages, or foods containing fermentable carbohydrates can contribute to early childhood tooth decay after the appearance of the first tooth. Your child’s intake of these kinds of foods need to be limited and monitored at all times.

Bottle feeding and breast feeding need to be restricted at certain times of the day, especially at night before bed. Their bottle feeding should be finished before they are in bed. The use of a cup after their first birthday is also encouraged by the American Dental Association. Training cups should be limited and not have frequent use.

One of the most important preventive measures for baby bottle tooth decay is proper oral hygiene at home. This includes cleaning the infant’s teeth after he or she has consumed foods, liquids, or medications. Your dentist will also give you advice on how to check your child’s teeth regularly at home to monitor their condition.

For more information on Early Childhood Tooth Decay, go to www.ada.org.