Dental health is crucial for a child's overall well-being and development. From the first baby tooth to pre-teen molars, establishing good oral hygiene habits early on can pave the way for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here are three essential practices for each stage to help your child build strong, healthy teeth and gums. 

Infants (0-2 years)

• Clean Gums and Teeth Early: Before teeth appear, gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings. Once teeth begin to emerge, use a soft silicone finger brush to gently clean their gums and emerging teeth. After the first few teeth have come in, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste. 
• Avoid Bottle Decay: To help prevent tooth decay, fill your baby’s bottle only with formula or milk. Finish bottle feedings before putting your baby to bed to avoid prolonged exposure to sugars.
• First Dental Visit: Schedule your baby's first dental visit by their first birthday to catch early signs of any dental issues. Learn more about when to schedule a child's first dental appointment.

Toddlers and Preschoolers (3-5 years)

• Supervised Brushing: Help your child brush their teeth twice a day with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Use interactive brushing apps that feature songs, games and characters to make brushing fun and engaging. Check out more tips for getting your kids excited about brushing their teeth. 
• Healthy Eating Habits: Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and water. 
• Regular Dental Exams: Schedule dental visits twice per year to monitor dental development and address any concerns. 

School-age Children (6-12 years)

• Independent Brushing and Flossing: Encourage your child to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. To help keep them motivated, let your child choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste.  
• Maintain Dental Check-ups: Having professional dental cleanings twice a year helps remove plaque and tartar that daily brushing and flossing might miss. These essential visits also allow dentists to spot potential issues like cavities, gum disease, or misaligned teeth early, enabling timely treatment. 
• Protective Gear for Sports: If your child plays sports, ensure they wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth from injury. Learn more about this essential piece of athletic gear.

By establishing healthy dental habits like these early on, you can keep your children smiling for a lifetime.