It is never too early to care for your little one’s teeth—even if they just have one!
First 5 San Diego’s Oral Health Initiative (OHI) has shared the following tips for taking care of children’s smiles:
- Take Care of Baby Teeth: Baby teeth are important for chewing, smiling, and speaking. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily if two teeth are touching.
- Keep A Good Oral Health Routine at Home: You can encourage good oral health habits at home by helping or brushing with young children regularly. To keep healthy teeth, use fluoride toothpaste and limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Visit a Dentist Regularly: Schedule a dental visit once your little one gets their first tooth or has their first birthday. Keeping their oral health on track will also maintain their overall health as well.
It’s not just children who need to take extra care as their teeth develop. Pregnant women also need to pay special attention to teeth and gum health to keep their babies healthy too. Regular brushing and flossing, eating healthy foods, and regular dentist visits can help reduce dental problems.
First 5 San Diego’s OHI provides dental services to children ages 0 through 5 and their families so they can get the best start in life. Oral health programs include:
- Dental screenings, exams and treatment for children ages 0 through 5
- Care coordination for high-risk patients
- Oral health education for parents/caregivers
To get connected to dental services supported by First 5 San Diego call an OHI provider near you or call 1-888-5 FIRST 5 (1-888-534-7785).