Dentist by Age One:
Infants should visit the dentist as soon as the first tooth comes in or no later than age one. Tiny teeth can get cavities too. Get to know the dentist early so that your child’s smile can stay healthy for years to come.
Nutrition:
Sharing Germs:
Germs that cause cavities are passed from parents to their children. Avoid sharing forks, spoons and straws with your child. Never put pacifiers, toys or other items in your mouth and then into your child's mouth.
Make sure the whole family has good dental health. Healthy mouths are less likely to spread cavity-causing germs.
Home Care:
Brush morning and night. Children need an adult to brush for them until they can tie their own shoes. Brush all parts of the teeth. Brush slowly. It takes time to do a good job.
Use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps teeth resist cavities. Spit or wipe out the extra toothpaste. Children age two and older should brush with a pea-size amount.
Younger children also need fluoride toothpaste if they are at risk for cavities. Check with a dental professional to find out your child’s risk.