Information For Parents

A Parent's Role at Home

Parents play a vital role in how healthy their children's teeth are. First and maybe most importantly parents are role models to their children. If your child sees you displaying good habits for healthy teeth they will likely follow your example.

Good dental health starts right after birth. After each feeding it is important to clean out your child's mouth with a clean gauze pad or cloth. Brushing, with a small soft bristled brush, can begin right after your infant's first tooth erupts.

Do not use fluoridated toothpaste until your child is old enough to spit it out and not swallow any, around 2 or 3 years old. Then only use a pea sized amount and be sure they don't swallow.

What children eat directly affects their dental health. Providing healthy low sugar snacks is a good way to prevent cavities. Also it is important to teach children about healthy eating choices. Help them learn how to limit sugar intake and teach them to brush their teeth directly after eating candy or other sugaring snacks.