It is possible for children to reach adulthood without ever experiencing tooth decay. But to assure this, good oral health practices should begin in infancy. Parents must provide this care in their child's early years. Later, parents will need to instruct, monitor and motivate their children to maintain good oral health habits. Children learn healthy practices from their parents, so parents must be good role models. Attitudes and habits established at an early age are very important for good oral health throughout one's life.

A child's dental care actually begins before birth. A pregnant woman's diet affects the development of her unborn child's teeth, which need sufficient amounts of nutrients to be healthy. After the baby is born, good oral hygiene can be practiced on the newborn by gently wiping their mouths and gums after every feeding, putting only water in their sleep time bottles, and massaging their gums when teeth begin to erupt at six to eight months of age.

When a child is frequently given a bottle that contains liquids with sugar as a pacifier or at sleep times, a serious condition called baby bottle tooth decay can result, which can destroy the teeth of the infant. Baby bottle tooth decay can be avoided by using water in a bottle, or by using a recommend pacifier.

Brushing should begin as soon as the first tooth erupts. Parents should brush and floss a child's teeth daily until the child can be taught to do this alone. Then a child's brushing and flossing should be supervised and encouraged by parents.

Flouride is one of the most effective ways of preventing tooth decay in children. Flouride protection can be obtained from a fouridated drinking water supply, flouride tablets or drops, and flouride toothpastes. Your child's particular flouride needs should be discussed with your dentist.

A child's first dental visit dental visit should occur between six and 12 months of age. Then visits should occur ideally every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Excellent protection against tooth decay can be provided by sealants, which are clear or shaded liquid plastics that are painted on the chewing surfaces of children's permanent back teeth. When combined with brushing, flossing, and a flouride toothpaste, sealants can provide total protection against decay.

As your child grows, you should continually encourage preventive dental care routines, such as brushing and flossing, using flouride, eating a balanced diet and having regular checkups. Your child may be fortunate enough to say, "Cavities? Never had 'em never will!"