Preventing Tooth Decay in Children: Tips for Parents
Encourage regular brushing and flossing
Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time Encourage them to brush all surfaces of their teeth including the fronts backs and chewing surfaces but be sure to help them until they can tie their own shoes (and after that if they’ll let you ) Flossing is also important for removing plaque and food particles from between teeth
Start good oral hygiene habits early
It’s important to establish good oral hygiene habits in children as early as possible Even before your child s first tooth appears, you can gently wipe their gums with a soft, damp cloth to remove bacteria Once their teeth start to come in you can begin brushing them
Use fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride is a natural mineral that can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay Look for toothpaste that contains fluoride and use a rice-grain sized smear when brushing your infant or toddlers teeth Preschoolers and older children should use a pea-sized amount