Oral Health Program

Dental care for your child

Dental care must begin early to prevent early childhood caries (ECC). Learning and developing healthy habits leads to good dental health in the future.

• Though nearly 100% preventable, tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease.

• Get in the habit of cleaning baby’s mouth every day

• Don’t allow your child to have a bottle in bed, unless it is only filled with water. Wean your baby from the bottle by 12 months of age.

• Don't put sugary liquids, juices or pop in your baby's bottle.

• Schedule your child’s first dental visit by age 1.

• Continue to help your child with brushing and flossing until they are able to do a thorough job themselves, which is usually until the age of 8.

• Avoid sharing toothbrushes and eating utensils.

• Remember that children learn by example – children are likely to have good dental habits if their parents do. Print this brushing and flossing chart (use ADOBE) for an easy way for your children to chart their progress.

• Dental care tips by age group
  • birth to 6 months
  • 6 to 12 months
  • 12 to 36 months
  • 3 to 5 years