At Kooning Family Dental, we’re passionate about helping families build lifelong healthy habits. Teaching kids good oral hygiene sets them up for confident smiles and better overall health. Here are practical tips to make dental care fun and effective for your little ones.

Start Early, Keep It Fun

Introduce brushing as soon as your child’s first tooth appears—around age one. Use a soft-bristled brush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (rice-grain size for kids under 3). Make it exciting with colorful brushes or by singing a two-minute brushing song. Our team loves showing kids how to brush properly during visits, turning it into a game they’ll enjoy.

Lead by Example

Kids mimic what they see. Brush and floss together as a family to show that oral care is a priority. Share how you visit Kooning Family Dental twice a year for checkups—it reinforces that dentists are friendly helpers, not scary strangers.

Watch the Sugar

Sugary snacks and drinks are cavity culprits. Limit juice and candy, and encourage water and crunchy veggies like carrots. We can provide personalized diet tips during your child’s appointment to keep their teeth strong.

When to Start Flossing?

Once your child’s teeth touch (usually around age 2–6), start flossing daily. We can demonstrate easy techniques for you and your kids. With compassion and quality at the heart of our practice, we’re here to support your family’s dental journey. Book an appointment today—our Spanish- and Italian-speaking team can’t wait to meet you!