10 Tips for Healthy Teeth
Try these strategies for healthy smiles.
Ten Tips for a Healthy, Happy Smile
- Brush at least twice a day—after breakfast and before bed.
- Take turns! Preschoolers are still developing the muscles and skills to brush on their own. Help kids brush. Then, ask them to take the lead and imitate your actions.
- Brush in tiny, gentle circles. Make sure to get the front, back, top, and bottom.
- Make it fun! Kids should brush for about two minutes. Sing the alphabet song to keep track of time.
- Fill kids’ diets with “anytime foods.” These include fresh fruits and vegetables and low-fat cheese.
- Drink water; it’s good for teeth and bodies!
- Brush or rinse after a snack, and space meals and snacks to give kids’ mouths a chance to wash away food.
- Visit the dentist twice a year.
- Ask the doctor or nurse to look at kids’ teeth and gums at their next visit.
- Let kids see you take care of your own teeth by modeling good brushing and eating habits.
Connecting & Communicating
Communication and connection with families is key to building a strong, effective healthy team.
Visiting the Doctor: Helping Kids Grow Up Strong & Healthy
Preparation and communication help you get the best care for your child at every medical visit.
Communicating at Doctor’s Visits
Good communication leads to good care for your child.
Elmo and Abby’s Check-up Play Date
Pretend play can help children “rehearse” situations that may frighten them.
Rosita’s Favorite
Regular check-ups can be a fun and informative experience for the whole healthy team, kids included!
My Whole Healthy Life: Meet Reignen
A video about the different ways a Native American child and his family stay healthy.
My Whole Healthy Life: Meet Wa.Sta.Tse
A video about the different ways a Native American child and her family stay healthy.
