At Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry, we believe healthy habits start early—and they make a big difference over time. Whether you’re guiding your child through their first brushing routine or looking to strengthen your own habits as a family, prevention is key to keeping smiles strong and healthy.

Here are 10 easy, practical tips we love to share with families in our care.

1. Brush Twice a Day (Together!)

Brushing in the morning and before bed helps prevent cavities and keeps gums healthy. For younger children, brushing together can turn it into a fun family routine—and gives you a chance to model great habits.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and small grain-of-rice size amount of fluoride toothpaste
• Brush for twice a day, brushing the cheek sides and tongues sides for about 2 seconds each. For big kids, this is about 2 two minutes for each brushing.
• Replace toothbrushes every 3–4 months

2. Don’t Skip the Floss

Flossing might feel tricky at first, but it’s just as important as brushing. It helps remove food and plaque from between teeth, where cavities often like to hide.

• Floss once a day (you can help until your child has the dexterity to do it on their own)
• Kid flossers can make it easier for parents flossing for their little ones, as well as for little hands, when they want to practice on their own.

3. Watch the Sugar and Carby snacks (Especially Between Meals)

Frequent snacking on sugary or sticky foods increases the risk of cavities. Try to keep sticky treats to mealtimes and encourage water between meals.

• Limit juice and sugary drinks to special treats only
• Offer snacks like cheese, fruit, or nuts
• Choose water as the go-to beverage

4. Schedule Regular Dental Visits

Routine check-ups allow us to catch small issues before they become bigger problems. We recommend a visit every six months to stay on track with preventive care.

• Cleanings remove tartar and plaque
• Early exams help us monitor function, growth and development
• It’s also a great opportunity to build trust and confidence in the dental chair

5. Eat Smile-Friendly Foods

Crunchy fruits and vegetables help clean teeth naturally and support gum health. A balanced diet also gives growing teeth the nutrients they need to stay strong.

• Incorporate more apples, carrots, celery, and leafy greens
• Avoid sticky or gummy snacks that cling to teeth
• Include calcium-rich foods like yogurt and cheese

6. Make Brushing Fun

The best routines are the ones kids enjoy. Use a favorite song, timer, or toothbrush with their favorite character to make brushing feel more like play than a chore.

• Try brushing apps or games to guide the routine
• Let your child choose their own toothbrush or toothpaste
• Brush alongside them—it builds connection and reinforces consistency

7. Protect Teeth During Play

If your child is active in sports, a custom mouthguard can help prevent dental injuries.

• Mouthguards for sports like soccer, basketball, or martial arts

8. Don’t Use Teeth as Tools

It might seem harmless, but using teeth to open packaging or bite nails can lead to chips, cracks, or wear over time. Remind kids (and adults!) to treat their teeth with care.

9. Model Good Habits

Children are always watching. The best way to teach healthy dental habits is to practice them yourself. Brushing, flossing, and making regular dental visits as a family can make all the difference.

10. Ask Questions—We’re Here to Help!

Every child is different, and we’re here to support you with personalized guidance that fits your family’s lifestyle. Whether it’s brushing struggles, dietary questions, or developmental concerns, we’ll help you navigate each stage with confidence.

Let’s Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy and Bright

At Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry, our team is passionate about building lifelong habits that support total wellness, starting with the smile. If you’re looking for thoughtful, kid-centered care in San Francisco, we’d love to welcome you to our dental home.

Call (415) 825-3323 to schedule your child’s next visit. Let’s grow healthy, happy smiles together.