Start early: Begin cleaning your child's gums with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush even before their first tooth appears.
Brush twice a day: Encourage your child to brush their teeth for two minutes, twice a day, using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Supervise brushing: Assist your child with brushing until they have the dexterity to do it effectively on their own, usually around age 6.
Floss daily: Teach your child to floss once a day when their teeth start touching each other.
Healthy diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and promote a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods.
Mouthguards for sports: Encourage your child to wear a mouthguard during sports activities to protect their teeth from injuries.