Children’s Dental Health Month started as a small, one‑day event in 1941 and has grown into a nationwide effort to show families why oral health matters. After all, your mouth is important for many parts of life — eating, speaking, learning and even self-esteem. Starting healthy habits early sets kids up for a healthier adulthood.

Here are a few ways kids can keep their smiles bright, confident and cavity‑free:

• Brush twice a day to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Kids under 6 need a grown‑up to help.

• Floss to reach the sneaky spots where plaque likes to hide.

• Swap sugary snacks for fresh fruits and veggies, nuts, lean meats and dairy.

• Ask your child’s dentist about fluoride and sealants; these protective treatments help prevent cavities and keep little teeth strong.

And ways parents can help make brushing more fun:

• Play their favorite song for two minutes.

• Use a sticker chart as a reward.

• Let kids choose their own toothbrush.

• Practice brushing on a doll or stuffed animal.

• Use a timer so they brush for the full two minutes.

Learn more: Visit our Dental Wellness Center to learn more about preventive dental care for children.

Sources: Oral Health Tips for Children,  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Keeping Your Child’s Teeth Healthy,  Nemours Children's Health, 2024