Dental Health in Infants and Toddlers

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! This is a great time to learn how to take care of your child’s teeth—starting at a very young age. Healthy habits now can help your child smile for life.

When to Go to the Dentist

Your child should see a dentist within 6 months of getting their first tooth. Early visits help find problems early and teach good habits.

Daily Oral Hygiene

• From the first tooth until age 3: Brush two times a day using a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).

• Brush long enough by singing the Alphabet Song or Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star twice—once for top teeth and once for bottom teeth.

• Try to brush after all food and milk at the end of the day.

• If your child still takes a bottle at night, brush after the bottle or work toward this routine soon.

• After age 3:  Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste without rinsing.

• We suggest parents help and watch brushing until about age 10.

How to Keep Teeth Healthy and Prevent Cavities

• Ask your dentist about fluoride varnish. Most insurance plans cover this every 6 months.

• Before teeth come in, gently wipe your baby’s gums two times a day with a clean, soft cloth.

• Avoid sugary foods and drinks, including juice.

• Tap water in Baltimore County and Baltimore City, Maryland, has fluoride, which helps protect and strengthen teeth.

Reliable Sources for More Information

• Healthy Children

• Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Taking care of teeth can be simple and fun. Start early, brush daily, and ask us or your dentist if you have questions. We’re here to help your child grow up healthy and smiling!