Cavity Prevention Tips for Kids in Chillicothe, Ohio

 Daily Brushing & Flossing

• Help your child brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for kids over age 3.
• Start flossing as soon as teeth touch together — usually around age 4–5.
• Make brushing fun: use timers, music, or let kids pick their toothbrush.
  

Professional Preventive Care

Regular dental visits are key to keeping kids cavity-free. During checkups, we provide:

• Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar.
• Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel.
• Dental sealants to protect cavity-prone back teeth

Learn more on our Preventive Dentistry for Kids »

Healthy Diet & Smart Snacks

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks — especially juice, soda, and sticky treats.
• Make sweets part of mealtime instead of stand-alone snacks.
• Offer smile-friendly snacks like fruits, vegetables, yogurt, cheese, and nuts.
• Encourage drinking water throughout the day to rinse away sugars and acids.
  

Why Baby Teeth Still Matter

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they are essential for:

• Holding space for permanent teeth
• Chewing and proper nutrition
• Speech development
• Confidence in smiling and interacting



Cavities in baby teeth can spread infection and cause pain, so protecting them is just as important as protecting adult teeth.

What If My Child Is Prone to Cavities?

Some kids are more cavity-prone due to genetics, deep grooves in their teeth, or diet habits. We may recommend:

• Extra fluoride treatments
• Sealants on molars
• More frequent cleanings (every 3–4 months)
  

Parent Role in Prevention

Parents are the first line of defense. To help your child:

• Model good brushing and flossing habits yourself
• Limit grazing/snacking between meals
• Schedule regular dental checkups starting by age 1
• Ask us about sealants, fluoride, and cavity-prevention options