As a parent, your job is protecting your children’s wellbeing, which includes their oral health. Having healthy teeth and gums will allow them to chew properly, avoid toothaches, and prevent other issues like gum disease. Research has also linked oral health to larger issues such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s.

You can easily watch out for the dental health of your loved ones with these helpful tips:

Start Young
As soon as your children have teeth, usually around age two, start wiping them down or using training toothpaste. By age five, they can start brushing with fluoride toothpaste.

Use Fluoride
Getting enough fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent decay. Make sure, however, that you don’t get too much fluoride because over fluoridation can leave spots on your teeth.

Develop Good Home Habits
Make brushing twice daily and flossing regularly a priority to prevent gum disease.

Rinse after Meals
Using antibacterial rinse or chewing gum after you eat can increase saliva flow, which neutralizes acid and washes away bacteria in your mouth.

Protect Their Smiles
If you or your children are involved in sports activities, talk to your dentist about getting a mouth guard. These dental appliances cover your teeth and help prevent serious mouth injuries when you play sports such as basketball, volleyball, and soccer.

Eat right
A balanced diet rich with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will provide the nutrients you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Visit the Dentist
Routine checkups are an important part of good oral health. Schedule appointments for your whole family every six months.

Dr. Cruz is a family dentist in Toronto.