Child Oral Health
Discover information and strategies Head Start staff can use in the classroom and share with parents on improving and maintaining the oral health of children, including children with disabilities.
Oral Health
Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease, but it's preventable. Children with dental pain can have trouble speaking clearly, eating, and learning. Resources in this collection cover the health of the mouth including the teeth, gums, and oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak, and chew.
These resources highlight some of the most common diseases that affect oral health, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
Oral Health Care
Explore information and strategies Head Start staff can use to help pregnant women and parents find oral health care, prepare for dental visits, and prepare for oral health issues during a natural disaster.
Fluorides
Learn about the role of fluoride — including fluoride toothpaste, fluoride supplements, fluoride varnish, silver diamine fluoride, and community water fluoridation — in the prevention and treatment of tooth decay.
Oral Health Promotion
Explore information and strategies Head Start staff can use to improve parents’ understanding of oral health’s impact on learning and to promote positive oral health practices in the classroom.
Easing Baby’s Teething Pain
Teething happens when a baby’s primary teeth push through the gums into the baby’s mouth. Learn about teething and tips to comfort a baby who has teething pain.
Understanding Why Primary Teeth Are Important
Primary teeth are key to a child’s growth and development. Head Start staff play a vital role in helping parents understand the importance of primary teeth to good oral health and overall health and well-being.
Promoting Oral Health for Children with Disabilities
Learn about the oral health challenges that some children with disabilities face. Explore strategies Head Start staff and parents can use to address these challenges.
Incorporating Toothbrushing in Bedtime Routines
Having a regular bedtime routine helps children know what to expect at the end of the day. Brushing children's teeth is an important part of the routine. Explore recommendations for choosing children's books on oral health.
Preventing Tooth Decay
Examine the factors that cause and protect teeth from tooth decay. Find out why it is important to balance these factors and to share this information with parents.
Brushing Teeth at the Classroom Table
Toothbrushing in a Head Start classroom can be done at the sink or at the classroom table. Learn about the advantages of brushing at the classroom table and get step-by-step instructions for how to do this.