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Oral Hygiene

Father helping his child for toothbrushing.These resources address practices that keep the mouth clean and healthy, preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Topics include brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing (when the teeth touch), and regularly visiting the dentist.

Brushing Your Child's Teeth

Brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay (cavities). Learn when to begin brushing a child’s teeth and how often.

Steps for Toothbrushing at the Table

Toothbrushing at the classroom table is a quicker, more structured way to have children brush than individually at the sink. In this video, learn how to prepare, model, clean up, and store supplies.

Helping Children Brush Their Teeth

By following these steps, Head Start and other early child care staff can help young children develop toothbrushing routines in the classroom to prevent tooth decay.

Establishing a Bedtime Routine for Your Child

A regular bedtime routine helps your child know what to expect at the end of the day. Brushing your child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste is an important part of the routine.

Helping Children Stop Using a Pacifier

Long term use of pacifiers can affect your child’s bite and the growth of the jaws and bones that support their teeth. If your child shows no interest in giving up their pacifier by 18 months, they may need help to stop.

Promoting Oral Health and School Readiness

School readiness begins with health because a child must be healthy to be ready to learn. Oral health impacts overall development and plays an important role in a child’s school readiness.