Caring for Older Kids’ Teeth

Kids ages 6 to 12 need to take good care of their mouths so their smiles last a lifetime.¹ As a parent, you can help. Here are some suggestions:

• Take your child to see a dental professional regularly.¹

• Encourage kids to eat a balanced diet.¹

• Limit sugary snacks between meals. Instead, offer healthy snacks such as fresh fruits and raw veggies, nuts, low-fat cheese, and plain crackers.²

• Make sure your child wears the proper protective gear, such as a mouthguard, during sporting events.¹

• Get kids to brush twice a day and floss once per day. Swap old toothbrushes with new ones every three or four months.³

What about the occasional toothache? Ease toothaches with a cold compress and some acetaminophen.¹

¹“Helpful Hints for a Healthy Smile.” Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children: The Foundation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. http://www.aapd.org/foundation/hints.asp Accessed 2010.

² “Diet and Snacking." American Association of Pediatric Dentistry. http://www.aapd.org/publications/brochures/snacking. Accessed 2010.

³ “Cleaning Your Teeth and Gums.” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/2624.aspx Accessed 2010.