Tips for Healthy Teeth - Great tips, games and activities

With three little kids - I need all the help (and education) I can get about caring for their tiny teeth.

Over 50% of children will have some tooth decay by age 5 and oral infection is the leading chronic disease in kids.

With that in mind, I'm teaming up with OTCsafety.org to share some oral care tips (and fun activities) for your family.

1. Help them Brush

Even kids in elementary school need some help and reminders with teeth brushing. With my 6 and 7-year-olds, I make sure they're rinsing well (and not swallowing too much toothpaste), and once a week or so I brush for them.

My 4-year-old gets to brush first, and then I brush next. We take turns until his entire mouth is clean. Being a part of brushing their teeth helps us teach them healthy habits from the start.

2. Lead by Example

Let your kids see your healthy example of brushing and flossing your teeth, and talk to them about why you're brushing your teeth after eating a sweet snack. Our kids are far more likely to do what we do, so make great dental health a priority for you, and it will become a priority for your kids too!

3. Use Fluoride

Last year, we purchased an over-the-counter fluoride rinse that's safe for kids. We make sure they use it once a day to help with their overall oral health.

The kids love it, and we feel like we're providing a little extra boost to the health of their teeth. Click here for more information about using fluoride safely with kids.