How should I care for my toddler’s teeth?

Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and have a good-looking 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 toddler'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.

Teaching your toddler good oral hygiene habits early can lead to a lifetime of good dental health. 

Toddlers between the ages of 1 to 3 years are at a stage where they can be taught good oral care to prevent problems down the road. Start brushing once the first teeth have appeared. Make it fun by brushing each other's teeth. The goal is to clean the teeth and remove all food particles, which prevents cavities. Experts advise that toddlers should see a dentist by the time their first tooth comes through.