Your child’s teeth allow them to eat properly, speak clearly, and smile widely. To build strong teeth and prevent dental issues, like tooth decay, proper oral hygiene should start as soon as their first tooth comes in. Here are a few tips to help you establish healthy dental habits in your little one.

How to Practice Proper Oral Hygiene With Toddlers

1. Limit Sugary Drinks

Sugary beverages include fruit juices and formulas. Only put breast milk or formula in bottles, and don’t let your toddler take the bottle to bed with them. The constant exposure to sugar without brushing can increase their chances of decay. Opt for unsweetened juice in moderated amounts, and avoid sugary drinks, like soda and punches.

2. Brush & Floss Daily

As soon as your toddler’s first tooth surfaces, start brushing their teeth twice a day. Use a soft, small toothbrush and a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. After your child turns 3, increase the toothpaste to a pea-sized amount. As soon as your little one has two teeth next to each other, begin flossing daily as well.

3. Visit the Dentist Regularly

Schedule a dentist visit within six months of your toddler’s first tooth.  At the appointment, the dentist will discuss proper oral hygiene, clean your little one’s teeth, and check for signs of decay or cavities. Although you should schedule a visit every six months, the dentist may discuss a different cadence depending on the needs of your child.

If it’s time for your little one’s first dentist appointment, contact the friendly team at Keiki Dental in Ewa Beach, HI. These oral hygiene professionals are dedicated to providing comfortable visits for children of all ages, and the office space is vibrantly decorated with a waiting area full of toys and books. They also offer several forms of sedation to young patients who are anxious about dental visits. View their full list of services online, or call (808) 680-9411 to schedule an appointment for your child.