Your child’s teeth matter! – starting at birth

Stop cavities before they start!

Healthy mouth and teeth are important to a child’s wellness.

Your pediatrician can apply fluoride varnish on new teeth to help stop cavities before they start. As a Health Plan member, there is no cost to you for this help. Talk to your doctor about how to help make your child’s teeth strong.

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a natural mineral that stops tooth decay (cavities) and helps make teeth stronger.  Fluoride can be found:

Did you know? Drinking water in Health Plan counties does not have fluoride. Using fluoride products helps protect your child’s teeth.

Start good habits early. Teach your baby when and how brush and floss their teeth.

• Brush your child’s teeth twice a day for 2 minutes. Help brush and floss their teeth until they are about 7 or 8 years old.
• Use small amounts of fluoride toothpaste when brushing to help support their teeth. Ask your doctor to show you how much paste to apply.
• If needed, your doctor can give you fluoride drops to take at home daily to help stop cavities.
• Find a dental home for your child by their first tooth (or first birthday).

When should my child visit the dentist?

• Take your child to the dentist for a health exam by their first birthday. Be sure to go back every 6 months.
• If your child has not gone to the dentist in the last 6 months, make an appointment.

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