Cavity Prevention

Children should be taught the importance of good oral hygiene at an early age. This will allow children to continue into adulthood with good habits which contribute to their overall health.

Tips for Children Under 5 Years of Age

• Clean the baby's gums with a clean wet gauze pad or washcloth.
• Once the teeth start to appear, brush them with a child's size soft toothbrush with plain water.
• NEVER put your child to bed with a bottle.
• DO NOT let your child use a bottle or a sippy cup for long periods of time or as a pacifier.
• Teach your child how to drink from a regular cup as soon as possible, perferably around 12-15 months of age.
• Make sure to brush your child's teeth at least twice a day.
• Begin flossing as soon as two teeth begin to touch.
• The first dental visit is most appropriate around the child's first birthday and regularly thereafter. If your child has dental problems, make sure to visit us as soon as possible.
• Limit juices and snacking as much as possible, preferably only at mealtime.
• Limit sugary foods.

Tips for Children Over 5 Years of Age

• Continue to brush your children’s teeth twice a day with a child’s size soft toothbrush and a pea-sized amount toothpaste until about five to six years of age.
• Continue to assist with flossing.
• Starting at the age of six or seven, children should be able to brush their own teeth twice a day. However, supervision should continue until the age of ten or eleven.
• Visit us regularly.
• Ask us about dental sealants, which can protect the grooves and pitted surfaces of the teeth where decay often starts.
• Adolescents also need reminders about practicing good oral hygiene, along with regular dental check-ups.
• Adolescents may need guidance in making nutritious food and beverage choices.