BACK
If you’re a parent, you know the struggle of getting your child to brush their teeth properly or at all. Toothpaste on the mirror, a 10-second brush (if you’re lucky), and the classic “But I already brushed!” after one bite of chocolate.
But here’s the thing: tooth decay in kids is more common than we think, and it can be more serious than just a few cavities. The good news? With a few simple habits and some expert-backed tips, we can protect those tiny teeth.
1. Start Early — Even Before the First Tooth
A healthy mouth begins before teeth erupt. Gently wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings helps keep the mouth clean and reduces bacteria buildup. Once that first tooth pops up, switch to a soft baby toothbrush and a rice grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste.
2. Make Brushing a Daily Routine — Not a Battle
Brushing twice a day should become part of your child’s daily routine, just like bathing or bedtime. For children under 3, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste; for kids over 3, a pea-sized amount is just right.
If your child resists brushing, try using a timer, playing music, or brushing together to make it more fun. Around age 3 or 4, I often recommend switching to a child-friendly electric toothbrush. These brushes are not only more effective at cleaning but also make brushing more engaging — some even have built-in timers and music.
3. Snack Smart
Frequent snacking, especially on starchy or sugary foods like chips, cookies, or even juice, can fuel cavity causing bacteria. Try to limit snacks between meals and choose tooth friendly options like cheese, fruit, or yogurt. And always offer water not juice or flavored milk between meals.
4. Schedule Regular Dental Visits
Your child should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. These early visits help identify potential issues, educate parents on proper care, and get your child comfortable with dental checkups.
After that, schedule visits every six months — or more frequently if advised. Prevention is always better (and easier!) than treatment.
5. Be a Role Model
Kids learn by watching and that includes how we care for our teeth. Let them see you brushing and flossing daily. Make it a family activity when possible. Children who see oral hygiene as part of the daily routine are more likely to adopt it long term.
6. Limit Sugary Drinks and Watch Hidden Sugars
Many parents are surprised to learn that even “healthy” snacks like fruit snacks, flavored yogurts, and granola bars often contain cavity causing sugars. Try to read labels when you can, and keep sugary treats as occasional indulgences.
Also, avoid sending your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup of milk or juice. This can lead to what we call “baby bottle tooth decay,” which affects the front teeth and can develop quickly.
7. Ask Your Dentist About Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars). They can help prevent cavities in the deep grooves where food and bacteria often get trapped. I typically recommend sealants as soon as those permanent molars come in usually around age 6 and again at 12.
The Bottom Line: Consistency is Key
Preventing tooth decay isn’t about being perfect it’s about being consistent. If you can help your child build good brushing, eating, and hygiene habits early on, you’ll be setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
