Dental Hygiene & Teeth Brushing for Children
Babies start smiling around four to six weeks, and by four months their giggles can make anyone laugh. Seeing those first teeth appear and capturing a big smile in a family photo is an exciting milestone.
Keeping teeth healthy
Keeping those teeth healthy is important. Dental decay is the most common tooth problem in preschoolers, and by age five nearly half of children have some form of it.
Teeth brushing tips
Start using a baby toothbrush when teeth appear, with a rice-grain–sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Let children play with the toothbrush to get used to it, and as they grow, encourage brushing twice a day with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
When to see a dentist
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association recommend children see a dentist and establish a dental home by age one.
Fluoride treatments
Fluoride treatments help strengthen enamel and protect teeth from decay.
References
AAP HealthyChildren.Org & Dental Hygiene
AAP HealthyChildren.Org & Teethbrushing Tips
