Linda A. Steele, DDS Blog

Did you know that sources estimate that about 57% of teenagers aged 12 to 19 have had at least one cavity? Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids, which erode the enamel.

Thankfully, this can be prevented by brushing and flossing twice daily to remove harmful plaque, microbes, and other debris that contribute to oral issues. But you’re not alone if you have a teen at home who struggles to maintain their dental hygiene. Continue reading to learn 3 tips that can help them protect their smile!

Many kids wake up on Easter Sunday to discover baskets full of candy and other goodies waiting for them. While this can be a lovely way for children to celebrate new life and the season of spring, neglecting to take the proper precautions when enjoying sweets can set them up for tooth decay and painful dental emergencies. Here’s a quick look at the worst and best candies for your child’s oral health as well as a few tips for helping your child keep their smile in great shape.

In February, dentists and oral healthcare professionals throughout the U.S. celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month. This month-long observance highlights the importance of good oral hygiene for children. From sharing fun and unique ways to keep teeth clean to providing parents with helpful tips that ensure their little ones are brushing and flossing properly, here are 3 best practices you can start implementing at home.

Dental checkups and cleanings every six months will give your child the best chance to maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout the school year. Avoiding cavities and tooth decay helps ensure they spend more time in the classroom rather than visiting the dentist for unexpected pain. If you have yet to schedule their six-month appointments for 2026, here are three reasons why it’s a good idea to bring them in at the start of the year.

As an adult, you may be anxious about going to your dentist. Your kids may feel the same way and get nervous about their dental checkups. However, it’s important you help make these visits comfortable, so they build great oral health habits. It may seem hard trying to calm their nerves but reading them certain books and stories can help! Here are the types to look out for to help them have an easier time.

As you get your shopping list ready for Thanksgiving, you and your family may be adding favorites that must be on the table. Some staples help make the meal more satisfying, but some foods may not be the best for smiles. This can be especially true for your child, as their growing grin deserves to stay safe! Here are three swaps you can do to help their teeth stay protected.

You already know how important it is for your child to brush their teeth every day—but flossing is just as essential! Flossing removes food and plaque between the teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Establishing this habit early helps prevent cavities and gum disease and sets your little one up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Here are some simple and effective tips for teaching your child how to floss.

As an expecting mom, you are no doubt doing everything you can to protect your baby. You may have changed your eating habits, started taking recommended vitamins, and more. But have you considered how your oral health may have an impact on your precious baby’s well-being? This blog post explains some important facts that you should keep in mind.

Has your child been complaining about constant pain in one of their baby teeth? There’s a good chance that they could be suffering from an infection, and unless quick action is taken, the tooth could be lost prematurely. Fortunately, infected baby teeth can often be saved with a pulpotomy or a pulpectomy. Here’s a closer look at these procedures and why having one performed could be essential for protecting your child’s smile.

Keeping your child’s teeth clean and free of harmful bacteria is essential to prevent cavities, but when it comes to toothbrushes, not all devices are created equally. Though studies have shown that there is little difference between the effectiveness of manual versus electronic varieties, ionic brushes were found to dramatically reduce plaque and gingivitis in both the long and short term. So, how do you know when your little one is ready to upgrade to a power toothbrush? Here are a few important rules of thumb.