How to Initiate Good Dental Practices for Toddlers

A big, toothy grin is a hallmark of the toddler years. An early start to oral care keeps that smile white, healthy and free of cavities, but toddlers aren't always cooperative when it comes to brushing teeth. Getting your tot on board with regular dental care is key to preventing tooth decay. He'll eventually lose those baby teeth, but keeping them healthy now maintains proper spacing so his permanent teeth come in correctly, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Things You'll Need

  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Children's books

Instructions

    • 1

      Schedule a dental checkup with a pediatric dentist if your child hasn't had one yet. The AAPD recommends the first dental visit by age 1. This allows early diagnosis of any dental problems and helps your toddler feel comfortable in the dentist chair. If you've already chosen a dentist for your tot, schedule regular checkups every six months.

    • 2

      Brush your tot's teeth with a tot-sized toothbrush moistened with water twice daily. The AAPD suggests brushing after breakfast and during the bedtime routine. When your toddler turns 2, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, recommends the American Dental Association. If your toddler wants to brush her own teeth, give her the toothbrush first. When she's done, finish up the job so all surfaces of her teeth are cleaned.

    • 3

      Floss your toddler's teeth daily. The AAPD recommends flossing once your tot has teeth next to one another since you can no longer reach those touching surfaces with a toothbrush.

    • 4

      Feed your tot a nutritious diet that limits sugars. Watch for sugar in drinks, too -- particularly juice. Never send your tot to bed with a bottle or sippy cup of milk or juice. The sugar sits on his teeth for an extended period of time, which may cause pitting, discoloration or cavities.

    • 5

      Wean your toddler from her pacifier if she still uses one. Extended pacifier use or thumb sucking can affect the positioning of teeth and the alignment of the jaw. The AAPD recommends ditching pacifiers by age 3.

    • 6

      Read books about dental care, especially if your tot doesn't enjoy brushing time. Try "Brush, Brush, Brush!" by Alicia Padron, "Open Wide: Tooth School Inside" by Laurie Keller, "Clarabella's Teeth" by An Vrombaut or "Pony Brushes His Teeth" by Michael Dahl.

    • 7

      Model good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss. Visit the dentist on a regular basis. If your toddler doesn't like taking care of his teeth, brush your teeth beside him. Tots often want to do what mom and dad do.

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