Dental Hygiene For Children: Establishing Healthy Habits Early

Establishing good dental habits in early childhood is crucial. As soon as your baby's first tooth erupts (usually around 6 months), brushing should begin using a soft-bristled baby toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. ### Key Tips for Parents: 1. **Make Brushing Fun:** Use 2-minute timer songs or interactive brushing apps to turn oral care into an enjoyable routine. 2. **Supervise Until Age 7–8:** Children under 7 generally do not have the manual dexterity to clean their back molars thoroughly. 3. **Limit Sugary Snacks & Juices:** Frequent sipping on fruit juices or sugary drinks causes prolonged acid exposure on enamel. 4. **First Dental Visit by Age 1:** Familiarizing your child with the dental chair early prevents dental anxiety later in life.

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Written by Siobhan Whitelaw, RDH

Clinical practitioner at Oaklawn Dental Care, Leixlip, Co. Kildare.