February is the time to spread awareness about National Children’s Dental Health Month. Every child deserves a healthy smile so they can talk, eat, and learn without pain. Starting healthy routines early can make a lifelong difference, so here are some ways parents and caregivers can strengthen oral hygiene habits.

Oral Hygiene Basics

  • Before teeth are present, wipe your baby’s gums with a soft washcloth after feeding.
  • Once teeth begin to appear, brush twice daily–after breakfast and before bedtime–with a baby toothbrush and a small smear of children’s fluoride toothpaste. Inspect the teeth and gums for any unusual spots.
  • Remember to start check ups at the dentist by their first birthday. Aside from a quick exam, brush, and recommendations, this familiarizes small children with the sights, sounds, and people at the dental office and helps build a positive association with receiving dental care.
  • At age 3, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and have your child spit out the toothpaste when finished. Rinsing isn’t necessary because the remaining toothpaste continues to protect their teeth. They will need your help with brushing until around age 7. 
  • Change to a new toothbrush every 3-4 months or after an illness. An electric toothbrush for children can make brushing more effective.
  • As teeth begin to touch, floss once daily between them. Expect to help kids with flossing until around age 10.

 

Make Oral Hygiene Fun and Engaging for Kids

  • Brush, Book, Bed incorporates oral hygiene into a simple, predictable nighttime routine. Strive for consistency instead of perfection because not every brushing session will go smoothly.
  • Print out these 2026 brushing calendars and coloring sheets that show kids proper brushing technique. Norton Children’s Tooth Fairy has videos with oral health sing-a-longs and stories, as well as coloring pages for kids. Smile Kentucky has oral health related activities, videos, and lesson plans.
  • Try watching a brushing timer video or play a favorite song to help kids brush for a full two minutes. Also have them choose their toothbrush and toothpaste flavor.
  • Be a good role model. Let them see you brush and floss because if you do it, they will likely want to do it too. 

Children need our help as they learn to take care of their teeth and they also need us to advocate for policies that increase access to dental care and preventive measures, like water fluoridation. Stay informed about policies affecting children’s oral health by following KOHC as we monitor the legislative session. Support ongoing advocacy efforts aimed at improving children’s oral health and take action by contacting your state legislators.