Dental care for a young child

Preventive dental care is important throughout your child’s life. The earlier you start good habits, the more likely those habits are to stick with them. Good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with their dentist helps ensure pain-free eating, healthy teeth and a bright smile.

You influence their dental health

  • Your child watches you and if they see you regularly brush and floss, they will understand that as a natural part of their daily care.

  • You can guide their food choices and preferences by eating healthy, non-sugary foods yourself.

  • As soon as your child shows interest, offer a toothbrush of his or her own and encourage your toddler to “brush” with you.

Brush for them

Most children don’t have the dexterity necessary to thoroughly clean their own teeth until they’re about six or seven, so you’ll need assist with twice daily brushing. Try different tactics to make brushing fun: flavored toothpaste, a toothbrush with a favorite character on it or singing songs about brushing. The primary goal is to instill healthy oral habits at an early age to set your child up for a lifetime of healthy, cavity-free teeth.

  • Help them brush their teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Also be sure to brush the top surface of their tongue.

  • Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces.

  • Clean between their teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen breath.

  • Keep their teeth safe during play

    If your child plays sports that involve contact, we recommend the use of a mouthguard. This includes T-ball, basketball and soccer. Ask us about having a custom-fitted mouthguard made to protect teeth, lips, cheeks and gums.

  • Choose a fluoride treatment

    When choosing an at-home fluoride product (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), always check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined by the ADA and approved based on safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth and smile bright with dental fluoride treatments!

  • Thumb sucking

    When they are infants, thumb-sucking is no cause for worry; but as kids get older, it can become an issue. If your child is still sucking when his or her permanent teeth start to erupt, it may be time to take action to break the habit. See our blog on thumb sucking.

  • Pay attention to loose teeth

    If your child has a very loose tooth, it should be removed to avoid being swallowed or inhaled.