Healthy teeth are important to your child’s overall health. They help your child eat and talk. Strong oral care helps set good dental habits as your child grows. Poor oral care can lead to infection, disease, or other teeth problems.

Help make dental hygiene fun with these tips:

• Let children help choose their own toothbrush. They can pick one that has a favorite color or character.
• Let children help choose toothpaste. They can pick their favorite flavor.
• Read books or watch videos that talk about dental hygiene.
• Use a timer to make sure kids brush their teeth for 2 minutes. Or play their favorite song to help keep track of time.
• Reward children for good oral care. Do not give them food or sugary treats. Offer something healthy or simple instead, like apple slices or a gold star.
• Plan a fun activity following your child’s dentist visit.

When to see a dentist

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children see a dentist around their first birthday. This gives the dentist a chance to look for early problems with your child’s teeth. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children’s dental health. The dentist will talk to you about proper oral care.

Visiting the dentist from a young age will help your child be more comfortable. It also establishes the good habit of regular dental checkups. Everyone should see the dentist twice a year.

Contact your dentist right away if:

• Your child has tooth pain or a tooth or mouth infection.
• Your child loses a permanent tooth. If you find the tooth, put it in milk and take it to the dentist with you. They may be able to reattach it.