Back to School, Back to Smiles: Preventing Cavities and Gingivitis in Our Children

As the school year kicks off, it’s the perfect time for parents to check in on their child’s oral health habits. Cavities and gingivitis don’t just affect grown-ups—these preventable conditions are incredibly common in kids too. In fact, tooth decay is the #1 most common chronic disease in children and the leading cause of school absences due to preventable illness. This makes oral health a critical part of your child’s overall well-being and academic success. 

As a dental hygienist, I see first hand how a few simple steps can make a big difference in keeping young smiles healthy and pain-free—not just for their teeth, but for their gums and whole body. Poor oral health has been linked to inflammation, difficulty concentrating, trouble eating healthy foods, and even increased risk for chronic conditions later in life. 

Daily Brushing & Flossing – Team Effort! 

Children need help brushing and flossing until the age of 12 to 13. That may surprise you, but most kids just don’t have the fine motor skills needed to properly clean all areas of the mouth. Brushing twice a day for two minutes is essential, but how and when we brush matters too. 

Before applying toothpaste, start with dry brushing—using the toothbrush alone to gently remove plaque and bacteria that collect overnight or during the day. This simple step helps reduce harmful buildup and gives children a chance to practice brushing independently, even if they still need help from a parent. Once it's time to brush with toothpaste, remind your child to spit but not rinse—leaving the beneficial minerals behind gives their teeth extra protection throughout the day. 

As for what to use, parents can choose a remineralizing toothpaste that works best for their family. One of my favorite minerals in toothpaste is nano-hydroxyapatite, a safe, naturally occurring mineral, helps rebuild and strengthen enamel after acid exposure. 

Cleaning between the teeth once a day is just as important as brushing—especially in the back, where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Traditional floss works well, but a great alternative is a water flosser or waterpik, which uses a gentle stream of water to flush out bacteria and food particles that brushing alone may miss. This added step helps prevent cavities and gum inflammation in those hard-to-reach areas. 

Nutrition – Fueling the Body & Mouth 

What we eat impacts our teeth. Sticky, sugary snacks (even granola bars and fruit snacks!) feed cavity-causing bacteria. Instead, pack lunches with tooth-friendly foods like cheese, nuts, fresh fruits, and crunchy veggies.

Limit sugary and acidic foods or drinks (like juice, soda, and sports drinks) to 20 minutes or less per sitting. The longer sugars and acids linger in the mouth, the more damage to the tooth and the minerals that can be removed from the enamel. 

Look for xylitol gum or mints—this natural sugar alternative can reduce the bacteria that cause cavities and support a healthier oral environment. 

Watch Out for Dry Mouth & Open-Mouth Breathing 

Many children today experience dry mouth, especially those who breathe through their mouths or take medications for conditions like allergies (antihistamines), ADHD, or asthma. Saliva plays a vital role in washing away bacteria, neutralizing acids, and protecting against cavities and gum disease—so when saliva is reduced, the risk of oral health problems increases. 

If you notice signs of dry mouth, such as frequent thirst, bad breath, cracked lips, or a white-coated tongue, consider evaluating your child’s oral care products. Try to reduce exposure to ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and propylene glycol, which are commonly found in toothpaste and may further dry out the mouth. 

Creating a routine that supports natural saliva flow—like staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and encouraging nose breathing—can help keep your child’s mouth healthier and more comfortable. 

If your child sleeps with their mouth open or snores, talk to your healthcare provider or dentist. A humidifier, nose-breathing training, and regular hydration can help support a healthier mouth. 

We Share More Than Love—We Share Bacteria 

Believe it or not, cavity-causing bacteria (Streptococcus mutans) are contagious. We often pass it to our children through shared utensils, kisses, and food. That’s why it’s so important that caregivers also practice excellent oral hygiene. 

Prevention is Powerful 

In addition to brushing, flossing, and good nutrition, consider these tips: 

• Dry brush before using toothpaste. 

• Use xylitol products daily. 

• Choose a toothpaste with remineralizing ingredients like nano-hydroxyapatite. Don’t rinse after brushing. 

• Limit sugar/acid exposure to 20 minutes or less per snack or drink. 

• Visit the dentist every 6 months, or more if your child is at higher risk. 

• Ask your dental provider what minerals best support your family’s enamel health.

Let’s start the school year with a fresh approach to oral health. These small daily habits today will help your child avoid pain, missed school days, and costly treatments later. Together, we can build a healthier future—one smile, one child, and one family at a time. 

Want to Learn More? 

At Restart Hygiene, we’re passionate about helping families take simple, effective steps toward better oral and whole-body health. 

For more free resources, tips, and support, visit: www.restarthygiene.com