Teaching your toddler the importance of brushing their teeth can be a major challenge. Many toddlers do not understand tooth decay, and they have a difficult time brushing their teeth. Oral Health Center recommends the following tips to help your children learn how to properly care for their teeth. Tip # 1: Fluoride TreatmentsOne of the best treatment options for children is to visit the dentist for annual fluoride treatments. Fluoride helps the teeth to stay healthy by repairing the enamel that has been damaged. It will strengthen the enamel to prevent future decay, and it is beneficial for the development of permanent teeth. More than 25 percent of young children will have at least one cavity. A simple Fluoride application can do wonders to prevent them from having additional decay problems. Always use fluoridated toothpaste, drink fluoridated water, and visit the dentist annually for fluoride treatments. Tip # 2: Daily BrushingSince your toddler will struggle to correctly clean their teeth, you need to do it for them. Teach them how to scrub their teeth with the toothbrush, and gently help them rotate the brush around the mouth. Focus on the back teeth since they have deep fissures where cavities often form. Consider using an electronic toothbrush as they constantly rotate while using them, helping to clean all the surface areas of the teeth. Tip # 3: Healthy EatingA major contributor to plaque and bacteria comes from juice. You need to limit your child’s intake of juice as it is hard on the enamel of the teeth. It is a good idea to only offer them milk and water. Do not let your child go to sleep with a bottle, or with milk. The milk can cause decay to occur during the night. Provide your child with a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits instead of candy. Healthy eating will reduce plaque and bacteria, and it helps your child to grow healthy. Tip # 4: Daily FlossingUse flossers to teach your child how to properly floss their teeth. Flossing will remove the bacteria found between the teeth, where a large majority of cavities occur in toddlers and young children. Tip # 5: Visit the DentistIt is important to schedule annual examinations with the dentist. Oral Health Center will examine the teeth and gums, and will be able to detect tooth decay and gum disease in an early stage. Reversing tooth decay early on can prevent serious problems from occurring to the permanent teeth that are in formation.