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Childhood is an important time for forming healthy habits, including habits to maintain a healthy smile. There are a number of things you can do to help your child have a clean, healthy smile.

1. Help your child eat a healthy diet

A well-balanced diet full of nutrients can help your child’s smile develop properly. If a child’s diet is deficient in certain nutrients, such as calcium, their teeth may not form as strongly as they should and if they lack vitamin C, their gum health may suffer.

2. Don’t share utensils

Do not eat feed your child with a fork or spoon you have been using. Putting anything in your child’s mouth than has also been in your mouth may transfer bacteria that can cause dental problems for your child. Thoroughly clean everything that your child regularly places their mouth, such as pacifiers.

3. Schedule your child’s dentist appointments

Schedule an appointment for your child to visit with the dentist by their first birthday. The dentist can check to see if your child’s smile is developing normally. This will also give you an opportunity to ask your dentist questions about their young smile.

4. Encourage daily brushing and flossing

Help your child establish the habit early of brushing twice each day and flossing each day. Not only is brushing and flossing important to help prevent cavities, but establishing these habits early will help your child develop healthy routines.

5. Consider dental sealants
Dental sealants are an effective form of preventive dentistry for young patients. Visit with your dentist about sealants and whether your child would benefit from preventive dentistry services.