Preschoolers are learning to do more for themselves, but they still need an adult’s help to keep their teeth clean. Consistent brushing, tooth-friendly eating habits and regular dental checkups can reduce cavity risk and build confidence before school begins.
Help Your Preschooler Brush Properly
Children ages three to six should generally use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush twice daily. Let your child begin, then have an adult finish the brushing and clean along the gumline and back teeth. Encourage your child to spit out toothpaste.
Clean Between Teeth
Floss wherever neighbouring teeth touch. Floss holders may make the task easier, but parents should guide the process. Ask the dental team to demonstrate if access is difficult.
Reduce the Frequency of Sugary Snacks
Cavity risk depends on how often teeth are exposed to sugars and refined carbohydrates. Provide planned meals and snacks, offer water between them and limit sticky foods and sweet drinks. Water is the best everyday drink for thirst.
Prepare for Kindergarten and School
A dental checkup before school can identify concerns that might affect comfort, eating or concentration. Keep the office informed about health conditions, allergies and medications. If your child participates in a contact sport, ask when a mouthguard is appropriate.
Support a Child Who Is Nervous
Use simple, positive and accurate language. Avoid sharing difficult dental experiences or promising that the child will feel nothing. Picture books, pretend play, and a predictable appointment time may help. Tell the dental team in advance about anxiety, sensory needs or communication preferences.
Common Concerns in Preschool Years
The dentist may monitor crowding, bite development, thumb or finger habits, grinding, enamel concerns and previous injuries. Early assessment does not always mean treatment is needed; it helps the dentist track changes over time.
Preschool Dental Care in Burlington
Children’s Dental Healthcare provides preventive and restorative dental care for preschoolers in Burlington. Dr. Hooman Arjomand offers consistent care in an office designed for infants, children and teens.
Schedule a Pediatric Dental Checkup
Call (905) 332-8880 or book an appointment online. New patients are welcome, and no referral is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a preschooler brush independently? Preschoolers can practise, but an adult should finish brushing because young children do not yet have the coordination to clean every surface.
- What causes cavities in preschoolers? Risk can increase with frequent sugar exposure, incomplete cleaning, low fluoride exposure, dry mouth and individual enamel or health factors.
- What should I do if my child is afraid of the dentist? Tell the office before the visit, use calm, accurate language, and ask about a gradual, child-centred approach.
Children’s Dental Healthcare
3051 Walkers Line, Unit 9 & 10, Burlington, ON
Phone: (905) 332-8880
Email: Burlington@ChildrensDentalHealthcare.com
Website: www.childrensdentalhealthcare.com
Let us help your child smile with confidence from the very start.