Child Dental Health: Healthy Teeth from Birth

Why it matters

Healthy teeth are important to your child's overall health, and you can start protecting them — and preventing cavities — from birth.

Babies

• Clean teeth with a soft, clean cloth or a baby's toothbrush.
• Don't put your baby to bed with a bottle.
• Check teeth regularly for spots or stains.

All children

• Start a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste at two years old — sooner if a dentist or doctor suggests it.
• Offer healthy foods, and limit sweet snacks and drinks.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.

Good habits formed early can give your child healthy teeth for life.

Sources

Based on the MedlinePlus health topic "Child Dental Health," National Library of Medicine, with content from the NIH's National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research; a work of the United States government in the public domain.