Tooth & Tusk Pediatrics and Orthodontics | Beaverton, OR

Cavities are the most common chronic disease in children, but they’re almost always preventable. At Tooth & Tusk Pediatrics and Orthodontics, we help families in Beaverton, OR, and surrounding communities take proactive steps to protect their children’s smiles with effective, simple oral hygiene habits.

Whether your child is just getting their first tooth or already has a full set of pearly whites, these top 10 tips to prevent cavities in kids will help them enjoy healthy teeth and fewer visits!

1. Start Early with Toothbrushing

Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Early brushing helps build lifelong habits and prevents early decay.

2. Brush Twice a Day for Two Minutes

Encourage your child to brush in the morning and before bed. Kids under 6 will need supervision to make sure they’re brushing thoroughly and for a full two minutes.

3. Introduce Flossing as Soon as Teeth Touch

Once your child has two teeth that touch, it’s time to start flossing daily. Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth, an area toothbrushes can’t reach.

4. Choose the Right Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. Use a rice-sized amount for toddlers and a pea-sized amount for older kids. Ask our team which toothpaste is best for your child.

5. Avoid Sugary Snacks and Drinks

Sweets, juices, sticky snacks, and sodas feed cavity-causing bacteria. Limit sugar intake and offer water and healthy snacks like cheese, fruits, and crunchy veggies instead.

6. Skip the Bedtime Bottle or Sippy Cup

Giving milk or juice before bed (without brushing afterward) can lead to baby bottle tooth decay. Water is the safest choice for bedtime!

7. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Visit a pediatric dentist every six months for cleanings and exams. At Tooth & Tusk, our kid-friendly team makes dental visits comfortable and even fun!

8. Ask About Dental Sealants

Sealants are a protective coating applied to the grooves of your child’s molars to prevent food and bacteria from settling in. They’re quick, painless, and highly effective at cavity prevention.

9. Encourage Water Over Juice or Soda

Tap water in Beaverton, OR, is fluoridated, offering extra protection for your child’s teeth. Encourage water between meals and after snacks to rinse away food particles.

10. Make Brushing & Flossing Fun

Turn oral care into a game or a family routine. Try brushing apps, sticker charts, or letting your child pick out their own toothbrush with fun characters.

Why Cavity Prevention Matters for Kids

Cavities can cause pain, infections, difficulty eating, and even missed school days. Building strong kids’ oral hygiene habits early helps prevent these issues and saves time and money on future dental work.

Pediatric Dental Experts in Beaverton, OR

At Tooth & Tusk Pediatrics and Orthodontics, we’re passionate about prevention. Our Beaverton dental office offers compassionate, expert pediatric dental care in a stress-free, welcoming environment.

From first visits and routine cleanings to orthodontic checkups, we’re here to support your child’s oral health at every stage.

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit Today

Looking to prevent cavities and keep your child’s smile healthy for life? Book an appointment with the team at Tooth & Tusk Pediatrics and Orthodontics in Beaverton today!