Healthy Smiles Start Early!
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month — a great reminder that healthy smiles start early! For families with young children (birth to age 5), building strong dental habits now can prevent cavities, reduce discomfort, and set the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Why Early Dental Health Matters
Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play a big role in your child’s development. Healthy teeth help children:
Chew and eat nutritious foods
Develop clear speech
Smile confidently
Hold space for their permanent teeth
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions in young children — but it’s also largely preventable with simple, consistent care.
Focus on Prevention
🦷 Start Early
Dental care begins before the first tooth appears. Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings. Once teeth come in, brush twice a day with a small smear (the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste. At age 3, increase to a pea-sized amount.
The American Dental Association recommends that children visit a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
🍎 Reduce Sugar to Prevent Cavities
Frequent exposure to sugary foods and drinks increases the risk of cavities. A few simple steps can make a big difference:
Offer water between meals (especially fluoridated tap water if available)
Limit juice and avoid sugary drinks
Serve sweets with meals rather than as standalone snacks
Choose whole fruits instead of fruit snacks or sticky treats
Even natural sugars (like those in dried fruit) can stick to teeth and contribute to decay, so brushing after snacks is important.
🪥 Brush and Floss Together
Young children need help brushing until at least age 6 – 8. Make brushing fun by:
Singing a two-minute song
Letting your child pick out a toothbrush with a favorite character
Brushing together as part of the bedtime routine
Once teeth touch, it’s time to begin flossing. Floss picks designed for little hands can make this easier.
Join a Dental Health Event Near You
National Children’s Dental Health Month is also a time for community learning and celebration! Many local organizations host special events focused on children’s dental wellness.
Our partners at the Connecticut Dental Health Partnership (CTDHP) are hosting a special “Popcorn & PJs” virtual event in collaboration with our friends at Read to Grow in Connecticut. This fun, family-friendly program combines storytime and dental health tips—perfect for cozy learning at home.
Check with your local dental associations, community health centers, or pediatric dental offices to learn about additional events and free resources happening in your area.
Find Trusted Resources
For more information about children’s dental health, explore:
The parent tips and play activities featured in Sparkler’s app this month
The American Dental Association
Educational materials from your child’s dentist or pediatrician
Healthy habits start small — but they make a big difference. By focusing on preventive care, limiting sugar, and making brushing and flossing part of your daily routine, you’re helping your child build a bright, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Here’s to happy, healthy smiles this February! 🦷✨
