Five Tips for National Children's Dental Health Month

February is National Children's Dental Health Month, a perfect time to focus on building strong oral hygiene habits for kids. Good dental care from an early age sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Cavities and gum disease are common in children, but they are largely preventable with the right habits and professional care.

To help parents and caregivers keep their little ones' teeth in top shape, we’ve put together five essential tips from our Boundless Dental Director, Dr. Ashiyan Rahman. She emphasizes, "The earlier kids develop good habits, the better their oral health will be in the long run." From regular checkups to limiting sugar exposure, these simple steps can make a big difference.

#1 Maintain Regular Dental Checkups – Routine dental visits every six months (or more frequently if needed) are essential for monitoring oral health and preventing major issues. Regular cleanings help prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease and even impact overall health, such as heart issues.

As Dr. Rahman explains, "A lot of people don’t realize that oral health is directly linked to overall health. Gum disease, for example, has been connected to heart disease and diabetes. Regular checkups help catch issues before they become serious."

#2 Prevent Gum Disease with Proper Oral Hygiene – Red, puffy or bleeding gums are signs of gum disease. Brushing thoroughly, flossing daily and using fluoride treatments can help prevent bacterial growth that leads to inflammation and decay.

"If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, that’s a sign of inflammation. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed," said Dr. Rahman. "Ignoring it can lead to periodontal disease, which affects not just your teeth but your overall well-being."

#3 Limit Sugar and Acidic Food Exposure – It's not just about avoiding sugar but also about how often and how long your teeth are exposed to it. Sipping sugary drinks or snacking frequently can lower pH levels in the mouth, increasing the risk of cavities.

"The frequency of sugar exposure matters more than most people realize," Dr. Rahman said. "It’s better to eat a dessert in one sitting than to sip a sugary drink over several hours. That constant exposure feeds bacteria and increases acid production, which wears down enamel."

#4 Start Good Habits Early – Begin oral care as soon as a baby’s first teeth emerge, wiping gums with a cloth and later introducing a toothbrush. Make brushing fun for kids by using songs or engaging tools and establish a consistent morning and night routine.

"I always tell parents to make brushing fun! Use a timer, play a song or even let your child pick out their own toothbrush," said Dr. Rahman. "The earlier kids develop good habits, the better their oral health will be in the long run."

#5 Consider Preventative Treatments – Fluoride varnish and dental sealants can strengthen teeth and prevent cavities, especially for children with newly erupted permanent molars. These treatments are simple, painless and highly effective in protecting teeth long-term. 

"Sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in molars," Dr. Rahman said. "It’s a quick, non-invasive way to provide extra protection, especially for kids who may not always brush perfectly."

The Boundless Health dental clinic located in Worthington is now accepting patients of all ages. To get started today go to the Boundless Referral.