As parents, we all want the best for our babies and toddlers, especially when it comes to their health. One important aspect of their well-being is dental care. Tooth decay is the most common—but preventable—childhood chronic disease both in Canada and around the world. Oral diseases often begin in the preschool years, which is why establishing good oral hygiene habits early is so important. Addressing dental care can be challenging both mentally and financially, but there are resources available to help. By focusing on the right tools, technique, and schedule, we can help prevent cavities, tooth decay, and other dental issues. Here’s how to set our little ones up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
1. The Right Tools
Let’s start with the essentials:
Finger Brushes: For our youngest ones, finger brushes or clean, damp cloths can be effective for wiping their gums until their first teeth appear.
Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants or toddlers, as these brushes are gentle on tiny teeth and gums.
Toothpaste: For children under three, use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste—about the size of a grain of rice. For children who have learned to spit, typically between ages three and six, a pea-sized amount is appropriate.
2. The Right Technique
Teaching children proper brushing techniques is essential for good oral hygiene:
Lift the Lip: Once teeth start coming in, lift their lip to clean the front surfaces of their teeth and gums. This helps remove plaque in areas that are easily missed.
Gentle Circular Motions: Encourage gentle circular brushing motions to cover each tooth thoroughly. For toddlers, helping them brush ensures they reach every area effectively.
Supervision: Supervise and assist with brushing until they’re about eight years old. Younger children may not have the motor skills or focus for thorough brushing, so guiding them is important. For children who are sensitive to brushing, letting them choose a fun toothbrush or playing a favorite song can make the experience more enjoyable.
3. The Right Schedule
Consistency is key for dental health:
Brush Twice a Day: Encourage brushing in the morning and before bed to help establish strong habits early on.
Give Teeth Breaks with Water: After sugary snacks or drinks, have them rinse with water to help wash away lingering sugars and acids that can lead to decay.
Regular Check-Ups: Schedule dental visits around their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Regular check-ups help monitor dental health and allow any concerns to be addressed early on. The Caring for Kids website recommends that “children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in.”
We understand that the expense of dental care can prevent some families from getting the care they need. The Government of Canada has introduced the Canada Dental Benefit to help Canadian families access dental care for young children. This benefit allows families to address essential dental care while the government continues work toward a long-term dental program. You can learn more about the Canada Dental Benefit here.
Lastly, as we focus on creating a safe environment, don’t forget about common bathroom items like mouthwash, which can be poisonous if ingested by young children. Be sure to keep mouthwash and similar items out of reach.
We know there’s a lot to think about as parents, and life can get busy. We hope these tips help keep your little ones’ teeth healthy and strong. Dental health is a lifelong journey, and by establishing good habits early, we can set our children up for a bright, healthy future.
Want to learn more practical child safety tips?
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