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1. Normal bacteria present in our mouth changes the sugar in food to acid that attacks the teeth. This acid attacks the teeth for 20 minutes or more with each exposure, and ultimately causes cavities.

2. Teeth need to be brushed a minimum of 2 times each day. An adult needs to brush and floss the child's teeth at bedtime until the child is 8-10.

3. Only a small dab of toothpaste is recommended when brushing. If your young child dislikes the toothpaste, it is not necessary at first. A wet brush will clean the teeth. After a while, try again. Toothpaste provides fluoride and freshens the breath.

4. NEVER put a child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup that contains milk, juice or any liquid that has sugar or other sweeteners. Water is the best option.

5. Avoid constant snacking and drinking. This feeds the natural bacteria in the mouth and causes cavities.

6. WATER is always a good choice and is fine anytime.

7. Chewing gum is fine as long as it is SUGAR FREE.

8. Even though children need the nutrition in milk and juice, drink these ONLY at mealtime. Milk and 100% juice have natural sugar and will cause cavities. When given with meals, food helps absorb the liquid sugars.

9. Sticky foods (fruit snacks, gummies, raisins, etc.) should be avoided. They stick and remain in the grooves of the teeth, which easily leads to decay.

10. Soda pop, Gatorade, sports drinks, Kool-aid, Huggies, etc. are also loaded with sugars – rarely or never give them to your child.

11. Avoid cereals high in sugar content. - If the milk changes color, it has too much sugar.

12. Between 12 and 24 months, your child should be moving on from a bottle.

13. Avoid chewing ice and hard candy. This can fracture enamel.

14. “Lift the lip” each day while cleaning your child's teeth to check for beginning cavities.

15. Do not share toothbrushes.

16. Wear a mouth guard while playing contact sports. (Basketball, soccer, wrestling, football, baseball, etc)

17. Take care of yourself! Your children learn by watching you.