Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Child
Check your child’s teeth often. Lift your child's lip and look at the front and back of his or her teeth near the gums. If you see any white or brown spots or gum problems call your dentist or doctor. Baby teeth are important. They help your child speak well, chew, and they hold space for adult teeth. Here are some tips to keep your child’s teeth healthy:
- Brush after breakfast and after the last meal or snack of the day. Have an adult apply a small pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to the brush. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure your child spits out any excess toothpaste.
- Stay cheerful and lead by example. Brush together and make it part of every day. Remember, your child will need the help of an adult until age eight to remove all the sticky plaque and germs that cause cavities. Try taking turns with your child when brushing his or her teeth. This allows your child to feel independent and also makes sure his or her teeth are brushed well.
- Begin gently flossing the sides of your child's teeth that touch, but do not force your child to let you floss. Brushing teeth is more important at this age.
- Do not let your child run or play with anything in his or her mouth. If a dental injury occurs, call your dentist or doctor right away.
Want to make brushing fun but need ideas? Visit Cavity Free Kids for more information and resources.