Article Translations: (Spanish)
Our teeth help us eat, talk, and smile. To keep your child’s teeth healthy, start good dental habits early. Keeping the teeth clean (through brushing and flossing), going to the dentist regularly, and making sure kids get enough fluoride are the best ways to keep teeth healthy.
Good oral health starts even before your child's first tooth comes in. Learn to keep your child's teeth healthy from infancy and beyond.
Cleaning the teeth (with brushing and flossing) prevents the buildup of plaque . Plaque is a clear, sticky material made up of bacteria (germs). It can build up and lead to:
Even before your baby’s first tooth comes in, it’s important to keep the gums clean by gently rubbing a clean, damp washcloth over the gums after each feeding.
After that:
Your child should see a dentist within 6 months of the first tooth coming in OR by their first birthday (whichever comes first). Going at a young age can catch problems early. And your baby will get used to the dentist looking in their mouth.
As kids get older, they should go to the dentist on a regular schedule. It’s usually between every 3 months to once a year. Ask your dentist what’s right for your child.
During the first visits to the dentist, your baby will sit on your lap and the dentist will do a short exam. As your child grows, the dental checkup will include a thorough cleaning of the teeth by a dental hygienist and an exam by the dentist (to check the teeth and gums).
The dentist may also recommend X-rays to see inside the teeth and check for decay, a fluoride treatment that is brushed onto the teeth (to prevent cavities), or a dental sealant (a coating painted on the teeth to prevent tooth decay).
Fluoride is a mineral found in the soil and water. It strengthens tooth enamel (the hard outer covering of the teeth). By keeping the enamel strong, fluoride helps prevent cavities.
To make sure your kids get the right amount of fluoride:
Call your doctor or dentist if your child has tooth or gum pain, a broken tooth, dark or light spots on their teeth, or if a tooth falls out from a fall or injury.
Other healthy-teeth tips:
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com