My son has problems with the enamel on his teeth, which his dentist says started in the womb. So no matter how well we brush his teeth and keep him away from sticky, sweet, or hard foods, he still ends up having a crown placed on a tooth at least once a year. That’s why I was interested when I saw Inspector Hector Plaque Detector rinse. Designed by Vi-Jon, your child rinses with Inspector Hector Plaque Detector prior to brushing his teeth. The rinse is supposed to stain areas on the teeth blue where plaque is located, indicating where he should concentrate on brushing the most.

I bought this rinse for my son last week, and I have to say that so far, I’m not all that impressed with it. His teeth have never really picked up the stain, yet I know after a full day’s worth of eating (or a night of sleeping) there is plaque on his teeth. We had been using a fluoride rinse after brushing (Listerine Smart Rinse), which I prefer and think I’ll return to after Inspector Hector is gone.

If you’d like to try this product for yourself, you can purchase Inspector Hector in WalMart stores (not available online) for about $6.99. Listerine Smart Rinse can be bought online at drugstore.com for $5.49.

When I was little, my sister had a pillow for the tooth fairy.  I was never quite so fortunate, and had to make do with sticking my lost teeth directly under my pillow.  Maybe that is why I always take a second look at tooth pillows when I encounter them.  I’m not sure I have ever seen one quite so unique and detailed as these that are available from MyRetroBaby.com.  Certainly my sister’s was not nearly this impressive!

Each pillow features a tooth fairy, who is printed directly on the fabric using archival ink.  A sparkly fabric forms the tooth pocket.  Clear glass beads accent the pocket and each pillow features a grosgrain ribbon as trim.  A medallion hangs from the ribbon and can be customized with a name or a word such as “believe” or “dream.” The pillow is stuffed with non-allergenic fiberfill and features a white satin handle that allows your daughter to proudly display the pillow when not in use.

Any little girl will love having this pillow, which enhances the magic of losing those first teeth.  You can purchase one for $56 at MyRetroBaby.com.  A larger version is also available.

My older daughter had a dental appointment today, and although she does a relatively good job of brushing her teeth, she is starting to have some problems.  One issue is that she just doesn’t spend enough time brushing.  We have used timers before, but they tend to get lost, and they definitely clutter up the bathroom.

This toothbrush holder from Sevi offers a great solution. First off, it is absolutely adorable.  Made from wood, it features a sweet little girl perched atop a timer.  The cup holds your child’s toothbrush and other bathroom essentials, while the timer reminds her to keep brushing even when she thinks she is done.  You can purchase one of these cute little products for $29.99 at petitbaby.com, where it comes in many colors and styles suitable for boys and girls. I’m not sure it will solve all of my daughter’s dental issues, but I’m hopeful that it will make a nice (and attractive start).

Caring for baby’s gums and teeth is very important. Teething babies will benefit also from the gentle massaging of their gums.

The Gerber Tooth & Gum Cleanser helps to make the discipline of caring for baby’s gums and teeth a fun time for you and baby. It’s a little space of time when you can talk to your baby while you gently clean.

It’s never too early to teach our children dental hygiene. The benefits are priceless. You can purchase one of these for just $5.99 online at CookiesKids.com.

Imagine how much easier the Tooth Fairy Pillow by Mullins Square will make your life. No more wrapping a lost tooth in tissue paper and placing it under your child’s pillow, only to find that the tooth has vanished when you tiptoe back in to your child’s room to make the switch.

This specialty pillow, which comes in girl’s and boy’s motifs, has a tooth applique pouch on the front to keep its treasure nice and snug.  Price: $16.00 at Littledragonflies.com.

I don’t know why I didn’t think of purchasing an item like this when my children were babies? I think I wrapped their first curls and teeth in tissue and put them away with all the other keepsakes. Now I couldn’t even tell you which belongs to who! But this would make a precious gift for the newborn in your life.

These miniature-sized treasure boxes are appropriate for their tiny treasures and make a lovely display in your child’s room. Each ceramic treasure box is 2.25″x2.25″ and comes gift packaged in a handsome oval box. Price: $28.99 at recurrentdreams.com.