The American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month every February to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. The ADA provides parents, teachers, and caregivers with a variety of resources to help kids understand the importance of good oral hygiene and to make taking care of their teeth more fun.
Oral health and overall health are greatly intertwined —poor dental hygiene in children can lead to cavities, infections, and even chronic conditions later in life. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most babies develop their first teeth between 6 and 12 months, though some infants may be born with teeth, known as “natal teeth.”
When to Start Brushing
As soon as your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s essential to begin brushing twice a day with a small smear (the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste. Research shows that brushing before bedtime is particularly important to prevent early childhood cavities, which can develop quickly if food or milk remains on the teeth overnight. The AAP also recommends that parents schedule their child’s first dental visit when their first tooth appears—or no later than their first birthday. At this appointment, dentists will provide guidance on oral care and may apply a fluoride varnish to help prevent tooth decay.
Building Healthy Habits as Kids Grow
By age 3, the AAP, ADA, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend increasing the amount of fluoride toothpaste to a pea-sized amount. Parents should continue to supervise brushing and apply toothpaste for their child until they are around 6 years old. It’s also important to teach children to spit out toothpaste rather than rinse with water, as rinsing can wash away the fluoride before it has a chance to strengthen their enamel. Parents should monitor brushing until around age 8, when children typically develop the coordination to brush thoroughly on their own.
The Risks of Delayed Dental Care
Neglecting early oral hygiene can lead to serious long-term health consequences. Studies show that children who develop cavities early in life are at higher risk of developing tooth decay in their permanent teeth and may also face difficulties with eating, speaking, and self-esteem. Pediatrician Kimberly Giuliano emphasizes that inadequate brushing can allow bacteria to build up in the mouth, leading to inflammation and disease not just in the mouth but throughout the body.
Fluoride: Friend or Foe?
Fluoride is essential for strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. However, excessive fluoride exposure in young children can lead to dental fluorosis, a cosmetic condition that causes white spots or streaks on teeth, according to the CDC.
In the United States, fluoride has been added to public water supplies for decades to help reduce cavity rates. Similarly, most toothpastes also contain fluoride, which has been shown to further protects enamel and strengthens teeth.
Dentists often recommend fluoride varnish treatments for children, especially since baby teeth have thinner enamel than adult teeth. These treatments, typically applied once or twice a year, offer extra protection against cavities.
Final Thoughts
Good oral hygiene starts early and plays a critical role in a child’s overall well-being. By brushing with fluoride toothpaste, scheduling regular dental checkups, and ensuring a healthy oral care routine, parents can help set their children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
For more tips and information, visit:
American Dental Association (ADA)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
