Prevention — the key to good oral health
The first steps to ensuring your child's oral health is taking care of your own oral health.
- Start early. It is important to maintain good oral health before, during and
after pregnancy. Research increasingly reports a possible connection
between periodontal disease and pre-term low birth weight. Practice good
oral health habits daily and visit your dentist regularly.
- Keep your own mouth healthy. Cavity causing bacteria in saliva can be
passed from parent or caregiver to a child.
- Brush and floss daily (brush 2 – 3 minutes)
- Use fluoride (toothpastes, mouthwash and water should contain fluoride.
Check labels.)
- Choose healthy, nutritious food (Avoid sugary snacks beverages, and
soda pop)
- Visit your dentist regularly for a check-up and oral cancer exam. Regular
dental care is particularly important for those with diabetes
- Use gum, mints, or oral health products containing xylitol. (Xylitol helps
prevent decay)
- Avoid using tobacco products. Spit tobacco use is related to oral cancers,
gum disease, and leukoplakia. Only one-half of individuals diagnosed with
oral cancer are alive five years after diagnosis.
Oral Health Program
