SAN DIEGO -- Decay in a child's baby teeth can lead to future dental, health and learning problems, according to supporters of a new program designed to teach pediatricians to troubleshoot complications before they get serious.

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Program Aimed At Stopping Baby Tooth Decay

The Welcome Baby Teeth program is run by Children's Hospital's Anderson Center for Dental Health Care. It is funded the county's First5 Commission.

"Early on, there's two things we look for," Dr. Gene Nathan said. "One, is to remind people of proper dental care for their children -- to make sure that they brush teeth with a soft toothbrush as soon as the teeth come in. (Second,) to actually look for spacing and evidence of cavities or wearing down of the outer part of the tooth, called the enamel."

Pediatricians like Nathan are often the first line of defense against baby-tooth decay, 10News reported.

"It's natural for a pediatrician to take a look at teeth and make recommendations for tooth and dental care. Particularly since most children don't get to see the dentist until later on in life," Nathan said.

Welcome Baby Teeth spokeswoman Jan Ferree said proper dental care early can help prevent later dental health problems and problems in school.

"If they're having pain, which is the most common symptom of tooth decay, they're not able to pay attention; they're not able to learn; they're not able to concentrate," Ferree said.

For more information about the Welcome Baby Teeth program, call (800) 788-9029.