Tooth Care: Ages and Stages
Learn how to maintain kids’ oral hygiene as they grow!
Here’s how to keep children’s smiles healthy at every age and stage!
Infant and Toddler:
- Use a soft washcloth to clean baby’s gums and teeth every day, as soon as they come in.
- Schedule a first dental visit within six months after kids’ first tooth, or by their first birthday.
- Soothe a teething child by gently rubbing their gums with a clean finger, cold washcloth, or chilled teething ring.
Preschooler:
- Remember to help children brush their teeth.
- Set up regular dental visits. There, you can learn about common concerns such as thumb-sucking and mouth injuries.
School-age child:
- Keep track of your child’s brushing and flossing routines, and help out when needed.
- During a child’s regular dental visits, get advice about caring for baby teeth or new, permanent teeth. Ask for advice on any issues, from using mouth guards for sports to chewing gum.
Let's Play Outside
Learning happens everywhere! Explore "outdoor science" ideas that encourage children to engage with the world around them.
Brushy Brush
These catchy tunes build healthy habits while helping little ones practice oral health.
Healthy Together: Celebrating & Practicing Whole-Family Health
Use these whole-family activity pages to explore new ways to build healthy habits and take care of yourselves… as a family.
Happy Dance
Sesame Street with Bounce Patrol
These high-energy tunes get little ones moving and grooving together.
Potty Time with Elmo
Elmo reads this animated storybook in an app filled with games, songs, stickers and potty progress chart that all help ease your child through toilet training.
Small Steps, Healthy Wins
A course for clinicians that offers evidence- and strengths-based guidance to aid in your work supporting families in building healthy habits that last a lifetime.
