Family Guide

It's easy to guide your family toward good oral health. All it takes is the right information and a little practice to keep them moving in the right direction!

As a parent, you can work with your children to help them understand why good oral care is important --- and show them how to do it right!

Tooth Care Time Line

Follow the tooth timeline as your children grow.

Infants:
Wipe gums with gauze or clean washcloth, up through 12 months of age. First baby teeth should begin to appear at about 6 months.

Ages 12 to 24 months:
Start cleaning your childs teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a drop of toothpaste on one or two tufts of bristles.

Ages 2 to 5:
You need to help children brush. Use only a peasize dab of toothpaste;
encourage child to spit, not swallow. By age 5, your child should be able to brush by herself with supervision. By age 3, regular dental visits are important.

Ages 6 to 7:
Children should be able to brush by themselves. Be sure they brush the six year molars in the back! You will need to floss their teeth for them.

Ages 8 to 12:
Hooray! Children should be able to brush and floss by themselves.

Ages 13 to 18:
This is a great age to reinforce brushing. Teens are often very aware of their smiles and the importance of fresh breath. Due to too frequent snacking, they may be more prone to cavities.

Adult:
Dental care does not end at 18. Adult teeth need just as much care: brushing, flossing, fluoride and dental checkups. Visit the dentist at least twice a year. Be aware that early signs of gum disease are red, swollen gums that bleed. If this is evident, see your dentist immediately.