Your oral health
Good oral health is important to your overall health. Poor oral health can be linked to:
- Diabetes: Gum disease might make diabetes harder to control. Having diabetes can also increase your risk of gum disease.
- Heart attack and stroke: Gum disease might increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Low self-esteem: Those with poor oral health may feel embarrassed about how their teeth look. This may affect an individual's self-esteem and confidence.
- Time lost from school or work: Problems with teeth may result in time lost from school or work.
Caring for your child’s teeth
Good oral health habits start early. Cavities can be prevented.
Tips to help prevent cavities:
- Brush at least 2 times a day for 2 minutes each time.
- Floss every day.
- Choose healthy food.
- Drink water.
- Visit a dental professional regularly.
Learn how to lift the lip
Learn how to lift your child’s lip to check for early signs of tooth decay.
Related information
- How to take care of your child’s mouth
- What to expect when your child’s first teeth appear
- Tips for preventing early childhood tooth decay
- Learn about your child’s first dental visit
- How to brush your teeth properly
- Healthy foods for a healthy mouth
- Learn about sealants to prevent tooth decay
- Preventing dental injuries
- Oral health and pregnancy
If you would like a copy of any of these resources, email us or call 905-799-7700, Caledon 1-888-919-7800.
Healthy food for a happy smile
How eating foods containing sugar can affect your child’s teeth.
How to brush your teeth and how to floss
Illustrated instructions on how to brush and floss your teeth.
Tooth brushing guide 6 years and younger
A guide for keeping your child’s mouth healthy.
Monthly brushing chart and making brushing fun
A fun chart for children to colour in each time they brush their teeth, and tips for how to make brushing fun for kids.
2 for 2 is what you do colouring sheet
A fun colouring sheet to remind your kids to brush their teeth 2 times each day for 2 minutes each time.