Brush, Floss, and Visit the Dentist
Good oral hygiene starts with consistent brushing and flossing. Here are some tips to help your child maintain healthy teeth:
- Brush twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Each brushing session should last at least two minutes.
- Floss once a day to remove food and plaque from between teeth.
- If possible, encourage your child to brush after meals to prevent plaque buildup.
Regular dental checkups are just as important. Your child should see a dentist at least once a year—or more frequently if recommended by their dentist. Don’t wait until your child feels pain to schedule a visit. If they are experiencing discomfort, call your dentist right away.
Healthy Eating for Healthy Teeth
What your child eats and drinks has a big impact on their oral health. Here are some ways to protect their teeth:
- Limit sugary beverages like juice, soda, and sports drinks.
- Reduce sugary snacks such as candy, cookies, and cakes. Even starchy snacks like chips can harm teeth over time.
- Encourage your child to drink water after eating sugary treats to rinse away sugar and reduce its effects.
- Use a reusable straw when drinking beverages to minimize contact with teeth.
- Brush after sugary snacks and drinks whenever possible.
Healthier alternatives like fruits and water are better for their teeth. Sugar-free gum or dark chocolate (in moderation) can also be a smarter choice. If your child does indulge in sugary treats, it’s better to enjoy them in one sitting rather than grazing throughout the day. This helps limit prolonged exposure to sugar.
Start Healthy Habits Early
You don’t need to wait until your child can brush their own teeth to start building healthy habits. Here’s what you can do for younger kids and babies:
- Use a damp washcloth to gently clean your baby’s gums after feedings, even before their first teeth come in.
- Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday to establish early dental care.
- Teach your kids about healthy dental habits through modeling and fun educational tools like videos.
We’re Here to Help
At Pillars Community Health, we offer a range of dental services for kids and adults. Our team is here to support your family’s oral health every step of the way.
For more information about our dental services, visit PillarsCommunityHealth.org. Don’t forget to schedule your child’s cleaning and exam this year—we’d love to see you!