Dental Health for Kids
Healthy teeth and gums mean more than just a pretty smile. They are important for your total health. Gum disease can also harm other parts of your body, including your heart. So caring for teeth and gums should be a regular part of everyone's day. Even your kids.
- Dental care for your kids should begin soon after they are born.
- Start by softly wiping their gums with a warm washcloth after they eat.
- Teach kids to brush around age 2. Don't use toothpaste yet. Just teach them to brush their teeth gently at least once a day. Brush the inside of the teeth as well as the outside.
- Ask your doctor about fluoride. This mineral helps keep teeth strong. Some cities add it to the water. If your city doesn't, ask the doctor about fluoride vitamins.
- Start taking your kids to a dentist at age 3. See the dentist at least once a year. The dentist will tell you when your kids can use toothpaste, when they can start flossing, and other ways they can keep their teeth and gums healthy.