Brushing Your Child's Teeth
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay (cavities). Learn when to begin brushing a child’s teeth and how often.
Oral Health
Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease, but it's preventable. Children with dental pain can have trouble speaking clearly, eating, and learning. Resources in this collection cover the health of the mouth including the teeth, gums, and oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak, and chew.
These resources highlight some of the most common diseases that affect oral health, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
The Difference Between Oral Exams and Oral Health Screenings
Both dental exams and oral health screenings help assess the health of children’s mouths, but they serve different purposes. Learn why an oral health screening does not take the place of an oral exam.
Steps for Toothbrushing at the Table
Toothbrushing at the classroom table is a quicker, more structured way to have children brush than individually at the sink. In this video, learn how to prepare, model, clean up, and store supplies.
Using Silver Diamine Fluoride on Children's Teeth
This handout for parents describes silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and how it can be used to prevent and treat tooth decay. It also describes the benefits of using SDF on young children.
How Dental Hygienists Can Improve Oral Health for Head Start Participants
Find out how dental hygienists can work in partnership with Head Start programs to improve oral health for enrolled children and expectant families.
How Dentists Can Improve Oral Health for Head Start Participants
Learn how dentists can work in partnership with Head Start programs to improve oral health for enrolled children and expectant families.
How Medical Providers Can Help Improve Oral Health for Head Start Participants
See how medical providers like physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, and physician assistants can work in partnership with Head Start programs to improve oral health for enrolled children and expectant families.
Using Teledentistry to Provide Care for Children
This brief for Head Start staff shares information about how teledentistry works, using teledentistry in public health settings, the benefits of using it in Head Start programs, and tips for getting started.
Helping Children Brush Their Teeth
By following these steps, Head Start and other early child care staff can help young children develop toothbrushing routines in the classroom to prevent tooth decay.
Caring for the Oral Health of Children Experiencing Homelessness
Families experiencing homelessness may face barriers to meeting their child’s oral health needs, including accessing oral health care. Learn tips to support their oral health.