Tips for Keeping Kids' Teeth and Gums Healthier

Recently retired Dr. Dennis Mihalka, a USC Dental School grad having practiced in Redding California since 1986, told Suite101, "It's hard to avoid sugary foods, but it's easy to brush and floss your teeth." Easy for adults, that is. That's why parents have to help. Moms and dads may not be able to curb all the sugar from their children's diets, but they can assist them with brushing and flossing.

    Dr. Mihalka recommends keeping toothbrushes and floss in the car glove box for easy cleaning on the go: It's called dry brushing (no toothpaste is needed). It works great when the kids forget to brush before leaving the house.
    TV time is also a good time to dry brush – keep a toothbrush next to your chair.
    Brush thoroughly, especially at the gum line on the inside of the teeth where it's easy to miss.
    Brush twice a day for at least two minutes.
    Floss the teeth at least once a day.
    Visit the dentist at least once a year to have the teeth and gums cleaned.