Once your child has a relationship with a dentist, it is important to continue consistent, regular visits.  It is recommended that the child visit the dentist every six months for a check up.  This will include a cleaning, exam, and if applicable—and the child allows—x-rays.  At these  visits, the child will become more comfortable with the atmosphere and will be more willing to cooperate not only in the office, but also with their home care.  The more consistent and positive the parents are with the visits the less traumatic it will be for the child. 

• Always supervise your child while they brush and floss their teeth. This should be done 2 times a day (morning and night).  If the child is unable to complete this thoroughly on their own, then the parent should help or follow behind and re-brush.
• Home fluoride rinses, such as ACT, are recommended on a daily basis, starting at the age of 6. This additional fluoride will help to reduce decay by  50-70%.
• Reduce intake and frequency of sodas, juices, sports drinks and processed foods and increase the consumption of water.
• Sealants are recommended on young permanent teeth to help prevent decay.
• If the dentist recommends for your child to have fillings placed in primary (baby) teeth, it is very important to do so. Not placing fillings will result in larger restorations being needed, extractions and even abscessing.
• If a primary tooth is removed before the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, the dentist may recommend a space maintainer. Missing teeth may lead to loss of space for   permanent tooth eruption, crooked teeth and a misaligned bite.