Bright Smiles for National Children’s Dental Health Month

Every February, we celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month, a reminder that good oral habits start early. Baby teeth may be small, but they play a big role in speech, chewing, and guiding adult teeth into place. Teaching kids how to care for their smiles now sets them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth.

1. When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Visit?

The American Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit by age one or when the first tooth appears. Routine checkups every six months help keep teeth healthy. Regular cleanings remove plaque, and exams monitor growth and development. It’s much easier (and less stressful) to prevent a cavity than to treat one!

Early checkups help:

• Detect early signs of cavities or gum issues before they become bigger problems.
• Give parents guidance on teething, thumb-sucking, and brushing techniques.
• Get kids comfortable with dental visits, so they feel safe and relaxed.
• Monitor proper tooth and jaw development as your child grows.



Starting early sets the tone for stress-free dental care as they grow up.

2. Keeping Cavities Away Starts at Home

Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood health issues, but it’s also one of the most preventable. A few simple steps can go a long way:

• Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste—just a tiny smear for babies and a pea-sized amount for kids over 3.
• Floss once teeth start touching—yes, even young kids need to floss!
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially sticky candies, juice, and sodas.
• Offer water instead of sugary drinks to help rinse away food particles.
• Consider dental sealants, which protect molars from cavities.



Pro tip: Most kids need adult supervision while brushing until around age 7 to make sure they’re reaching every tooth.

3. Watch Out for Sneaky Sugar

Cavities don’t just come from candy and fruit snacks—sugar hides in plenty of everyday foods and drinks. Here are a few common culprits:

• Juice and flavored milk: Even “100% juice” has natural sugars that can lead to decay. Water is always a better choice.
• Gummy vitamins and sleep aids: These stick to teeth, making it easier for bacteria to thrive.
• Granola bars and dried fruit: They sound healthy, but they’re loaded with sugar and tend to cling to teeth.



Brushing and flossing daily is key to preventing decay, but being mindful of diet also makes a big difference.

Edgewood Family Dentistry Helps Keep Anderson Kids Smiling

At Edgewood Family Dentistry, Dr. Mallory Kuiper and our team love helping kids feel confident about their smiles. Whether it’s time for your child’s first visit or just a routine checkup, we’re here to make dental care easy and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month with a healthy smile!

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Categorised in: Dental Tips, Preventive Dental Care