Overview

By now your child has been seeing a dentist regularly for years. Continue with your usual schedule. If for some reason your child has not yet seen a dentist, make an appointment for an examination.

More and more of the responsibility for good dental habits belongs to your child now.

What your child can do

What you and your dentist can do

• After your child's permanent teeth begin to appear, talk with your dentist about having dental sealant placed on the molars. Sealants are made of hard plastic and protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth from decay.
• Discuss your child's fluoride needs with your dentist. If your child needs extra fluoride, your dentist may recommend supplements. Use these only as directed. And keep them out of reach of your child. Too much fluoride can be toxic and can stain a child's teeth.
• Good nutrition is important for building and maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Give your child nutritious foods to maintain healthy gums, develop strong teeth, and avoid tooth decay. These include whole grain foods, vegetables, and fruits. Try to avoid foods that are high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, such as pastries, pasta, and white bread.
• Keep your child away from cigarette smoke (second-hand smoke). Tobacco smoke may contribute to the development of tooth decay and gum disease.^{footnote 1} Teach your child about the dangers of smoking and second-hand smoke.
• Children play hard, sometimes hard enough to knock out or break a tooth. Learn how to prevent injuries to teeth and what to do in a dental emergency. For more information, see the topic Mouth and Dental Injuries.