Oral Health Milestones
Visit Specialists at Ages 1, 7 and 15
All children deserve the best start in life –
and that includes ensuring children have good oral health.
Three dental organizations – the American Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons – have partnered together to remind you that as your child meets significant life milestones, they also should maintain optimal oral health.
1
Baby teeth are the blueprint for permanent teeth. Bring your child to a family or pediatric dentist by age 1 to put them on the path to lifelong oral health.
7
By age 7, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to evaluate if a problem exists or is developing.
15
Around the age of 15, it’s crucial for teens to visit an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) to assess the status of their wisdom teeth.
You can help your child develop healthy oral hygiene habits by:
Brushing
Start brushing your child’s teeth with a child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a rice grain amount of toothpaste for children under 3 and a pea-sized amount for ages 3 and older.
Flossing
Once your child has two teeth that touch, clean between them daily to remove leftover food and plaque along the gumline.
Diet
As your child grows, provide a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and avoid sugary drinks and snacks.