Good oral health begins at home with good eating habits and daily cleaning of teeth and gums. Mouths go through many changes during childhood, so it is important to see a dental professional regularly for information and support.
Free dental health screening for ages 0–17
At GEPH's dental clinics, we make sure your child's teeth are developing in a healthy way. At the visit, a Registered Dental Hygienist will:
- Screen for cavities and signs of tooth decay
- Screen for healthy tooth development
- Provide tips on how to keep your child’s mouth clean and prevent injuries
- Provide information about using soothers, sippy cups, etc.
- Provide a free fluoride treatment if needed
- Provide a free baby or child oral health kit with a toothbrush, information booklet, and other oral health items
- Enroll your child in Healthy Smiles Ontario or make referrals as appropriate
Healthy Smiles Ontario program
Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) is a program for kids ages 0–17 who belong to lower‑income households or households having challenges with money.
Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federally funded program designed to provide dental coverage for Canadian residents who have an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000 and do not have access to private dental insurance. The CDCP helps cover a portion of the costs for a wide range of oral health care services, making dental care more accessible for eligible individuals and families. This program can be used alongside Healthy Smiles Ontario, and the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP).
You will need to renew your CDCP coverage every year to confirm that you still meet the eligibility requirements.
Canadian Dental Care Plan — Canada.ca
Provider search — Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) | Sun Life
Do schools offer dental checkups?
Yes. We provide free dental screenings in schools every year to help keep your child’s smile healthy. To learn more, visit our page on oral health in schools.
Oral care for infants and toddlers
You should start to clean your baby’s mouth soon after birth. Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe their gums twice a day from back to front. As they grow, follow these tips to keep their mouth healthy:
- Don’t put your baby to bed with a bottle.
- Give water in between meals.
- Have a dental screening by their first birthday.
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks, including juice.
- Check for tooth decay by lifting the lip and looking for any white, yellow, brown, or black spots on the teeth. Please call us if you have any questions about your child’s teeth.
A child’s first birthday is the perfect time for their first visit to one of our dental clinics or to a dental professional of your choice. By age two, children should brush their own teeth alongside an adult who will make sure the whole mouth is clean. You can use a very small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. Make brushing a positive experience and set an example by brushing your own teeth.
What can you do if your baby is teething?
Babies usually get their first teeth between 6 and 12 months. If teething makes your baby fussy:
- Rub their gums with a clean finger or a cool spoon.
- Use a soft, wet washcloth.
- Offer a safe teething ring.
Don’t use teething gels, biscuits, or painkillers for babies under two. If your baby has a fever or seems sick, see a doctor.
Oral care for children and preteens
By ages 7 to 12, children are typically brushing and flossing on their own, but they still benefit from reminders and guidance.
Here are some tips to help your child maintain good oral health:
- Floss or use soft picks or a small interdental brush to clean between teeth every day.
- Brush all surfaces of the teeth twice a day for at least two minutes using a pea‑sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Choose water instead of sugary drinks like juice or pop.
- Offer healthy snacks such as:
- Apples
- Raw vegetables
- Cheese
- Plain yogurt