Good dental habits should start even before a baby's first tooth appears. While using a damp and soft cloth, parents can try to wipe their baby's mouth and gums right after drinking or feeding so as to avoid bacterial build-up. A toothbrush made especially for kids and toddlers can be used once the other teeth have appeared. Since baby's teeth need fluoride to grow strong and healthy but excess fluoride may cause discoloration, parents should make sure that their kids are given enough amounts of fluoride. Special tablets containing fluoride should only be given to children if the dentist says so.

Teaching kids to brush their teeth after every meal is important in avoiding cavities. Too much sweets should also be avoided since sugar can promote the growth of bacteria that causes cavities. If a child develops cavities, bring him to the dentist for proper treatment. Another tip for avoiding cavities in children is to not let them sleep while holding a milk or juice bottle. The sugar from these sweet drinks may accumulate in the kid's gums and teeth and may put the kid at a higher risk of developing cavities.

Regular check-ups with the dentist are also important since dentists can help parents figure out if their kids are more at risk of getting teeth and gum diseases. Pediatric dentists are well-trained to handle different cases concerning child dental health and they can provide parents with more specific tips on how to teach the kids to brush their teeth everyday.