Dental health is not just about a pretty smile, it is an important part of a child’s growth, development and overall well-being.
Cavities are the most common chronic disease among children in the United States, affecting almost half of them between the ages of 2 and 19. (as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026).
About 1 in 10 children ages 2 to 5 have unhealed cavities, a number that rises to nearly 1 in 5 children ages 6 to 8.
Baby teeth play an important role in a child’s development, as they are the foundation for healthy permanent teeth and support speech and general well-being.
Additionally, emergency dental care causes children to miss approximately 34 million hours of school in the United States annually.
Good oral health habits and dental visits from a young age can help reduce the risk of developing cavities and other medical conditions.
Consider these tips to help parents promote good dental health in children:
– Encourage healthy snacking and hydration
What children eat and drink plays an important role in their dental health (according to the American Dental Association). Sugary snacks and drinks feed bacteria that can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Limiting sugar and encouraging water consumption helps remove food particles, dilute acids, and support healthy saliva flow. Nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, and yogurt provide calcium and vitamin D to help maintain strong teeth and bones.
– Make preventative dental care part of your routine
Regular preventative dental care can help detect problems early, helping to reduce the risk of more serious and costly problems later. For children, untreated cavities can cause nutritional deficiencies and potentially stunt growth and development.
Oral health can also be linked to health problems like diabetes and heart disease, so it’s important to take advantage of preventive services from a young age. (as reported by Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
Many dental plans cover preventive services such as exams, cleanings, x-rays, and sealants. Call the number on the back of your dental insurance card to find out what your plan covers.
A child’s first dental visit should be scheduled after his or her first tooth appears and no later than his or her first birthday. The following visits must be every 6 months.
– Promote a positive dental experience
Anxiety and fear of the dentist are quite common, affecting a third of young children in the world (according to Journal of Dentistry, 2024).
Dental visits may include the use of instruments or services that may seem scary. Visiting the dentist regularly can help children feel more comfortable and make the experience more familiar.
Parents can help calm them by explaining what to expect, answering questions, or using books or videos to help children feel prepared and safe.
– Encourage good dental hygiene
Although it is suggested that parents supervise brushing until at least age 8 to ensure proper technique, dental health education can begin much earlier. (as reported by Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
Encourage twice-daily brushing with an American Dental Association (ADA) approved toothpaste. Insert dental floss when two teeth touch to teach children that cleaning between teeth is as important as brushing.
Parents can make dental care fun by letting children choose colorful toothbrushes, making brushing a family activity, singing songs, or using a stopwatch.
– Replace toothbrushes regularly
Change toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles are worn. During cold and flu season, replace toothbrushes after each illness to avoid reintroducing germs to the body.
Encouraging healthy dental habits and being consistent with preventive care from an early age can help children grow up with strong smiles, fewer health complications, and confidence.
