FALLS CHURCH, Va.   –   Tooth decay is the most common chronic health problem affecting children in the U.S. today. More than half of children between ages 6 and 8 have had at least one cavity in their baby teeth, and more than half of teens between 12 and 19 have had cavities in their adult teeth, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

When cavities aren’t treated, they create serious problems like pain and infections. These can make it hard for your child to eat, speak, play, and focus on learning.

Fortunately, you can prevent cavities completely through proper oral care. By following these useful strategies, you can help your child develop healthy dental habits that will benefit them throughout their life.

Begin caring for teeth before they appear

You can start caring for your baby’s mouth even before the first tooth shows up. Using a soft, clean cloth or baby toothbrush, gently clean your baby’s gums twice each day—once in the morning after the first feeding and again right before bedtime. This cleaning removes bacteria and cavity-causing sugars.

When teeth start coming in, begin brushing twice daily with a soft, small toothbrush and plain water. For children younger than age 2, talk to your doctor or dentist about when to start using fluoride toothpaste.

Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday. Early dental visits help find problems before they get worse.

Use fluoride toothpaste twice daily

Children who brush regularly with fluoride toothpaste have far fewer cavities than those who don’t. Fluoride makes tooth enamel stronger. It also provides key protection against decay-causing bacteria.

Help your child brush their teeth until they can do it well on their own. For children younger than age 6, make sure they use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and spit it out instead of swallowing it.

Your child should brush for the recommended two minutes, twice daily. Make brushing enjoyable by playing their favorite song or using a timer to keep them engaged for the full two minutes.

Show your kids how it’s done

Children learn behaviors by watching their parents. Let them see you brush and floss your teeth regularly. When you consistently take care of your own oral health, your child learns dental care is an important part of overall wellness.

Make dental care a family activity by brushing together during your morning and evening routines. This shared experience helps build positive habits while making oral hygiene a part of your daily schedule.

Get protective coatings for back teeth

Dental sealants provide long-lasting protection against tooth decay. They prevent about 80% of cavities that develop in the back teeth. Ask your child’s dentist whether sealants would be beneficial for your child’s specific situation.

Professional fluoride varnish treatments offer additional protection, preventing about one-third of cavities in baby teeth. Talk to your dentist or pediatrician about applying fluoride varnish as soon as your child’s first tooth appears.

Watch what your child eats

What your child eats directly impacts their dental health. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, which speed up tooth decay and cavity formation. Instead, offer nutritious alternatives like fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products supporting healthy tooth development.

Encourage your child to drink water throughout the day. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria. Children who live in communities with fluoridated tap water experience lower cavity rates than children whose drinking water isn’t fluoridated.

Make the dentist a regular part of life

Schedule regular dental checkups for your child. Regular preventive visits help identify dental problems early and ensure proper tooth and jaw development throughout childhood.

During these appointments, dental professionals can teach you and your child the best brushing and flossing techniques for your child’s age. Regular visits also help children become comfortable with dental care, which significantly reduces anxiety about future appointments.

Create routines that stick

Good oral health habits established during childhood create foundations lasting throughout your child’s life. By helping your child develop proper dental care practices now, you’re setting them up for good oral health into adulthood.

Healthy teeth and gums contribute significantly to your child’s overall physical health and self-confidence. Start using these strategies today and make dental care a regular part of your family’s daily routine for the best long-term results.

Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions to get benefit updates, news, and more.