Why should mothers teach their children good oral care habits?

Teaching your children good oral hygiene habits early can lead to a lifelong healthy smile! The ADA recommends that parents take children to a dentist no later than their first birthday and then at intervals recommended by their dentist.

When your child's teeth start to appear, brush them with a child's size toothbrush and plain water. At the direction of your dentist, some children under two may benefit from the use of fluoride toothpaste. For newborns, clean the baby's gums with a clean wet gauze pad or washcloth. 

Until your child is six or seven years old, continue to brush his or her teeth twice a day with a child’s size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and continue to assist with flossing as needed. Look for toothbrushes and toothpastes that carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance because they have been evaluated by the ADA for safety and effectiveness. 

Mothers should teach their children good oral care habits because these good habits can last a lifetime. Dentist visits are usually needed only twice a year, but teaching your child to brush with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, floss daily, and use a fluoride or antimicrobial mouthwash can go a long way in preventing cavities, tooth decay, tooth loss, and other medical problems like diabetes.