Proper dental cleaning habits can help your children keep their mouths and their bodies healthy, and will benefit them for a lifetime.

Infants

Oral care should begin immediately for your child, even before your infant has teeth.

• After every feeding, wipe hisJher gums gently with a clean, damp cloth to reduce plaque buildup and to establish good oral care.
• Brushing should begin when the first tooth erupts (use an infant toothbrush and toothpaste designed for an infant).
• Brush/wipe your child's teeth at least two times a day, especially before putting your child to sleep.

Infant Dental Care Q&A

• What is baby bottle tooth decay?
  If a baby is put to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice, the liquid will lie on the teeth at night, allowing acid to develop and break down tooth enamel, which eventually results in decay.
• When should I take my baby to the dentist?
  Within six months of your baby's first tooth eruption.

Toddlers

Your toddler may be able to brush his/her own teeth, but it is important for parents to continue to supervise to ensure consistent and effective toothbrushing and flossing habits:

• Be sure your toddler brushes twice a day, with a small amount of toothpaste, spits out any remaining toothpaste and rinses with water. (Check with your child's dentist on when to introduce fluoridated toothpaste.)
• It may be useful for you to check your toddler's mouth after brushing, or take over at the end to ensure all food particles are removed from the teeth.
• Floss your toddler's teeth once a day to clean between teeth where the toothbrush can't reach.

Young Children

At age 6 or 7, most children begin to lose their baby teeth and permanent teeth begin to take their place. It is important for parents to continue supervising and encouraging their children to establish good dental habits.

• Encourage a good dental diet, which helps not only their incoming teeth, but their growing bones and bodies.
• Try to limit snacking-frequent snacks between meals continually coat the teeth in sugar, creating acid that gradually wears away enamel.
• Make sure your child visits the dentist regularly, and check with your dentist if your child is receiving the proper amount of fluoride to help prevent tooth decay.
• Talk to your dentist about sealants for your child's teeth-sealants are best applied when the first permanent molars erupt, around age 6, or when the second permanent molars erupt around age 12.

Pre-Teens/Teenagers

By the age of 13, many teenagers will have 28 permanent teeth. For an image-conscious teen, the idea of teeth stains, missing teeth and bad breath is ample reason to keep up with their oral care regimen. However, their lifestyles can keep dental decay knocking on their door, because::

• Soft drinks, sports drinks and juice are all very popular for teens, but can damage teeth in large amounts. Have them sip through straws and rinse with water afterward to help limit the sugar remaining in the mouth.
• On-the-go lifestyles can mean frequent snacking and less time at home. Have your teen carry a travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste, chew sugarfree gum and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Convenience is key. Stock your bathroom with plenty of floss and toothpaste and your kitchen with mouth-healthy snacks like cheeses, fruits and veggies.