How to Help Children Have Good Dental Health

God has provided us with the good things which come of the earth for food and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to strengthen the body and to enliven the soul (Doctrine and Covenants 59:17, 19). One way we can enjoy and benefit from the food we eat is by protecting our dental health with good hygiene.

Parents play an important role in helping children learn and practice good oral hygiene. Healthy teeth and gums are important for young children’s overall development and nutrition.

Why is it important to care for children’s teeth?

People might think baby teeth aren’t important because they eventually fall out, but baby teeth are important to a child’s overall health and well-being. Teeth are important for better digestion and nourishment, and baby teeth in particular help keep space in the mouth for adult teeth that are developing. When a child loses baby teeth too early, it can cause permanent teeth to grow too close to one another.

If baby teeth are not taken care of, tooth decay can occur, which can cause infections with pain, swelling, and fevers. These infections can move to other parts of the body, which could put the child’s health at risk.

How to Care for Children’s Teeth

There are many things that parents can do to help care for their children’s teeth. Use the recommendations below and others in the “Healthy Teeth” guide to learn how you can take care of your child’s baby teeth.

• Dental health professionals can identify and treat small problems before they become bigger problems. Some areas have low- or no-cost dental clinics available.
• Dental disease can start at a young age. That’s why it is important to start brushing a child’s teeth as soon as they appear. Use fluoride toothpaste if it is available.
• When brushing teeth of a child up to the age of two years old, use a small amount of toothpaste—about the size of a grain of rice. For children over the age of two, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
• When a child has teeth close enough to touch one another (usually between two and six years of age), it is good to start using dental floss if available. Flossing helps remove food particles from areas that brushes cannot reach. It is important that children get used to teeth flossing early in their lives.
• Brush young children’s teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. Help young children start brushing their own teeth as soon as they are able. Use playful ways to help children participate in toothbrushing. For example, sing while your child is brushing.
• When children snack frequently, it can cause their teeth to decay. It is best when parents limit snacking.
• Decay or cavities also can result when a child uses a bottle filled with milk, juice, or any drink other than water continually throughout the day. Children should not go to bed with a bottle (unless it’s water). If a young child is using a pacifier, it should not be dipped in anything sweet.

How can I help others learn more about children’s dental health?

Here are a few ways you might help others to learn more about the importance of children’s dental health. Consider these ideas and others as you pray for guidance.

Ministering Brothers and Sisters

• As you feel it is appropriate, teach and share information about children’s dental health as you visit families.
• Discuss dental needs with the family to know how to best support them.

Local Leaders

• Consider which families may not be able to get proper dental care and/or supplies. Leaders may then counsel together to find ways to help families meet their own dental needs.
• Organize workshops to teach children dental health and encourage good habits.
• Find community resources that provide free clinics and instructions on good dental hygiene. These places may also supply free or affordable toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss.