At Floss Boss Pediatric Dentistry, we know that every parent wants their child to grow up healthy, happy, and confident. One essential part of that journey is making sure they have a strong foundation for oral health. Establishing good dental hygiene habits early in life not only prevents problems down the road but also helps children develop a positive relationship with their smile and with the dentist.
Located in Hillsborough Township, NJ and Flemington, NJ, our team is dedicated to providing gentle, friendly, and educational dental care in a way that makes kids feel safe and supported. Here are four key recommendations for building healthy dental habits at home—simple, effective, and stress-free for parents and kids alike.
1. Start brushing with the first tooth
Many parents think they need to wait until their child has a full set of teeth to start brushing, but actually, oral care should begin with the first tooth. As soon as that first little tooth appears—usually around 6 to 12 months of age—it should be gently cleaned twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
As your child gets older (around age 3), you can increase the amount of toothpaste to a pea-sized portion. Make brushing fun and routine—twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Continue supervising your child’s brushing until they have the dexterity to do it thoroughly on their own, usually by age 6 or 7.
2. Don’t skip the flossing
One of the most common questions we hear is: “When should my child start flossing?” The answer is: as soon as they have two teeth that touch. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach.
At first, flossing may seem tricky, but we’re here to help! At Floss Boss Pediatric Dentistry, we can show you and your child how to use floss effectively, and we often recommend child-friendly flossers to make the process easier and even fun.
3. A healthy diet supports healthy teeth
What your child eats directly affects their dental health. A diet high in sugar increases the risk of cavities—even in baby teeth. Try to limit sugary snacks, juice, and soda, and instead focus on a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and plenty of water.
One helpful tip: avoid giving your child a bottle or sippy cup with milk or juice at bedtime. Sugary liquids can linger in the mouth overnight and cause “baby bottle tooth decay.” Water is the best option for hydration and rinsing the mouth between meals.
4. Visit the pediatric dentist regularly
Taking your child to the dentist at a young age helps catch problems early and sets the stage for a lifetime of positive dental experiences. The first visit should happen by age one, or within six months of the first tooth appearing.
Our offices in Hillsborough Township and Flemington, NJ provide a welcoming, kid-friendly environment designed to make dental visits something children look forward to. We offer cleanings, exams, oral hygiene education, and preventive treatments that are gentle and tailored to your child’s age and development.
Want to schedule a visit? Call us today at (908) 751-0770 or (908) 493-5885 to book an appointment at either of our convenient locations!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
We recommend scheduling the first dental visit by your child’s first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in.
2. What kind of toothbrush should my child use?
Choose a toothbrush with a small head, soft bristles, and a comfortable grip. There are special brushes made for babies and toddlers that are safe and effective.
3. Is fluoride toothpaste safe for young children?
Yes, fluoride helps protect teeth from cavities. Use a tiny smear (rice-sized) for babies and a pea-sized amount for children over age 3. Always supervise brushing to make sure they don’t swallow the toothpaste.
4. My child is scared of the dentist. What should I do?
This is very common, and we completely understand. At Floss Boss Pediatric Dentistry, we use a gentle, friendly approach and explain everything in kid-friendly terms. Early and regular visits help ease fear and build trust.
5. Do baby teeth really matter if they fall out anyway?
Absolutely! Baby teeth help children eat, speak, and smile confidently. They also hold space for permanent teeth. Keeping them healthy is critical for proper oral development.
At Floss Boss Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that good dental hygiene doesn’t have to be stressful—for you or your child. With simple habits at home, a supportive dental team, and regular visits, your child can enjoy a bright, healthy smile from the very beginning.
Need to book a checkup?
Call us at (908) 751-0770 or (908) 493-5885 to make an appointment at our Hillsborough Township or Flemington locations.
We can’t wait to meet your little one and help them smile with confidence!
