What Can I Do to Keep My Child’s Teeth Healthy?

The most important thing parents can do is to encourage healthy eating habits and routine brushing and flossing. Between-meal snacks should be limited to no more than two per day to avoid continuous snacking throughout the day. Sticky foods such as raisins and gummy candies should be avoided, as they are not easily brushed out of teeth and lead to cavities.  Juice drinking should be limited to no more than 4-6 ounces per day, and given only at mealtimes. Parents often dilute juice with water, but it is important to remember that diluted juice still contains sugar, and more importantly, acid. Parents should maintain a regular brushing schedule of twice per day, particularly after breakfast and before bed. As soon as the 2-year molars erupt, parents should floss between the teeth to prevent cavities from forming in these commonly problematic areas.