National Children’s Dental Health Month: Prevent Kids’ Cavities (and When Sedation Helps)

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, a perfect time to refocus on one goal that matters and for every parent that is knowing how to prevent cavities before they turn into bigger problems.

The good news?

A few simple habits at home, plus regular dental visits can dramatically reduce your child’s risk of tooth decay.

Some kids breeze through dental visits, while others need a little extra support to feel calm and comfortable. Let’s start with easy ways to prevent cavities at home, then we’ll cover when sedation dentistry may be recommended to help your child get the care they need.

Why cavities are so common in kids

Cavities (tooth decay) happen when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and starches, producing acids that weaken tooth enamel.

Kids are especially prone to cavities because:

• Their brushing skills are still developing
• They snack more frequently
• Many common kids’ drinks and foods contain hidden sugars
• Baby teeth have thinner enamel than adult teeth

The key is preventing acid attacks on teeth throughout the day.

7 simple ways to help prevent cavities

1) Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

Brushing in the morning and before bed is non-negotiable. Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps reverse early signs of decay.

Parent tip:

Most children need help brushing effectively until around age 7–8. You can let them start, then do a quick “parent finish” to make sure every surface gets cleaned.

2) Floss once a day (yes, even for kids)

Cavities often form between teeth, where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. If your child’s teeth touch, flossing is important.

Make it easier:

Use floss picks designed for kids or ask your dental team to show your child a simple technique.

3) Watch the “sticky snack” trap

Sticky foods cling to teeth longer, giving bacteria more time to produce acid. Common culprits:

• Gummies, fruit snacks, taffy
• Dried fruit
• Crackers and chips (they break into particles that stick in grooves)

Better options:
Cheese, yogurt, apples, carrots, nuts (age-appropriate), or a smoothie with no added sugar.

4) Be mindful of frequent sipping and snacking

Even “healthy” drinks can contribute to cavities if sipped all day. Constant exposure means constant acid attacks.

Try this instead:

• Offer water between meals
• Keep snacks to set times
• If your child has juice, serve it with a meal, not as a “sip throughout the day” drink

5) Choose water (and ask about fluoride)

Water helps rinse away food particles and keeps saliva flowing. If your family drinks filtered or bottled water, ask your dentist whether your child is getting enough fluoride.

6) Don’t skip regular dental checkups and cleanings

Professional cleanings remove plaque in hard-to-reach places, and checkups help catch small issues early—before they become cavities that require treatment.

Extra benefit:
Routine visits also help kids get comfortable in the dental chair, which can reduce anxiety over time.

7) Ask about dental sealants

Sealants are a thin protective coating placed on the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars), where most cavities form. They’re fast, painless, and can significantly reduce decay risk.

Early warning signs of cavities in children

Not all cavities are obvious at first. Call your dentist if you notice:

• Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweets
• Tooth pain (even mild or “off and on”)
• White spots or dark areas on teeth
• Avoiding chewing on one side
• Bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing

When sedation dentistry can help

Some children do everything “right” and still need dental treatment, or they may feel nervous about dental visits. That’s where sedation dentistry can be a helpful option.

Sedation may be recommended if your child:

• Has significant dental anxiety or fear
• Has trouble sitting still for treatment
• Needs multiple treatments completed efficiently
• Has a sensitive gag reflex
• Has special healthcare needs that make dental care more challenging
• Had a negative dental experience in the past

Sedation can help your child stay calm and comfortable, so the dental team can safely complete care while your child feels supported. If your child would benefit from sedation dentistry, we’ll walk you through every step so nothing feels unexpected. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect before, during, and after sedation.

Important note:
Sedation is not “one-size-fits-all.” Your child’s dentist will review medical history, anxiety level, and treatment needs to recommend the safest approach.

Helping your child feel confident about dental visits

Even if you don’t need sedation, you can reduce anxiety by:

• Using positive language (avoid words like “shot,” “hurt,” or “pain”)
• Reading a kids’ book about going to the dentist
• Scheduling appointments earlier in the day
• Letting your child bring a comfort item
• Keeping your own tone calm and upbeat

Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month with a cavity-prevention check-in

February is a great time to reset routines and build habits that last all year:

• Replace toothbrushes (or brush heads)
• Practice a “2-minute brush” with a timer
• Add flossing to the bedtime routine
• Pick tooth-friendly snacks for the week

If your child is due for a checkup or if you have questions about cavities, sealants, or sedation dentistry our team at Posh Pearl Family Dental & Spa is here to help. We’ll talk you through your child’s needs, comfort level, and goals, then create a personalized plan to keep their smile healthy and confident.

Schedule your child' s dental visit at Posh Pearl Family Dental & Spa and ask about solutions that can help make appointments easier and more comfortable.