Pregnancy

Maintaining your teeth and gums healthy is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your baby’s health during pregnancy. Oral Health care is safe throughout pregnancy. Regular brushing and flossing, eating a balanced diet and visiting your dentist regularly, will help reduce dental problems that often accompany pregnancy, such as:

• Cavities and tooth decay: vomiting exposes your teeth to stomach acids that can weaken your tooth enamel
• Periodontal disease: evidence suggests tooth infections can be a major risk factor for babies born too soon or with low birth weight
• Gingivitis: due to decreased immune response and hormonal fluctuations

Medi-Cal Covers Dental During Pregnancy Brochure:

English / Spanish

 

 

Medi-Cal Covers Dental During Pregnancy Flyer: 

English / Spanish

 

Babies (0-3)

Caring for you baby’s smile begin the moment they are born. Big smiles start with healthy gums. To keep your baby’s gums healthy, gently wipe them with a clean, moist washcloth after feeding. Once your baby gets their first tooth, it’s time to begin a brushing routine.

Use a rubber brush that fits over the pointer finger. These brushes are bacteria resistant when kept clean, and don’t require toothpaste and have small rubber bristles that can help gently clean your child’s tooth and gums. Once more baby teeth come in, start brushing their teeth as soon as they come in by using grain of rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. 

First Tooth, First Birthday, First Visit

Dental visits should start early to ensure healthy habits. Your baby’s first dental visit should take place as soon as their first tooth appears or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Establishing a dental home is just as important as finding the right pediatrician.

Is it Teething time for your Baby: English / Spanish

Baby Teeth Growth Chart

 

 

 

A Healthy Smile for Your Baby Brochure: English /Spanish

Tips to help keep your baby healthy

 

First 5 Kit for New Parents:  Order now

Free California parent guide and resources

Kids 4-12

The best way to protect your child’s teeth against tooth decay is by developing good oral health habits.

Brush 2 times a day for 2 minutes - Creating good oral health habits like brushing twice a day is essential to healthy teeth. Always help young children under 8 brush and floss to ensure they are doing a good job. Remember, only a pea sized amount of toothpaste is needed for children 3+. Make sure your child spits out the toothpaste and does not swallow it.

Prevent Kid’s Tooth Decay Handout: Download

 

 

Brushing Techniques Handout: English / Spanish

 

 

How to Floss Video: 

 

Molar Sealants

The best way to keep your child’s teeth healthy is by taking them to regular dental visits every six months. Molar sealants are a clear, protective coating applied to permanent molars to keep them protected from cavities. Dental sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities in the back teeth.

Teens (13-17)

Wisdom teeth usually appear during this time, completing the set of permanent teeth It is important for teens to continue regular dental check-ups as the dentist may recommend other services like orthodontics (Braces).

 

Teens & Teeth Infographic: Download

 

Wisdom Teeth Video:

 

Adults

Good oral health becomes more important as you get older and can prevent tooth loss, decay, and gum disease. Regular dental visits can help you keep your gums and teeth strong.

Older Adults 55+

Healthy teeth and gums are an important part of our overall health no matter your age. Practicing good oral health habits can help you lower your risk for developing dental conditions like gum disease and cavities.

A Healthy Smile Never Gets Old

Brochure: English | Spanish

 

 

 

Diabetes Dental Tips

Handout: English | Spanish

 

 

Dry Mouth & Older Adults

Handout: English | Spanish

 

 

Individuals with Disabilities/Caregivers

Providing oral health care is especially important for individuals with disabilities and may require a different approach to maintaining good oral health. As a caregiver, you play an important role to help keep their teeth and gums healthy.

Toothbrushing Positions for your Child with a Disability

 

Access the handout: Download

 

 

Medi-Cal Covers your Loved One's Dental Needs

 

Access the Brochure: English / Spanish

 

Additional resources for Caregivers: 

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Developmental Disabilities & Oral Health.

Smile California: Helpful Tips for Caregivers.