By Dr.Roksolana Mykhalus, Second-Generation Dentist & Owner of Happy Kids Dental
As a dentist with two decades of experience—and as a mother—I’ve seen firsthand what can make or break a child’s dental health. I know how tempting it can be to let things slide when kids resist brushing or to believe that baby teeth don’t matter because they’ll fall out anyway. But trust me, small choices in childhood can make a huge difference in lifelong dental health.
Here are seven things I would never allow my own son to do, and why you shouldn’t either.
1.Miss Regular Dental Checkups Every 6 Months
Life gets busy, but I would never let my son skip his routine dental checkups every six months. Even if there’s no pain, hidden issues could be developing.
Why?
✔ Cavities don’t always hurt at first—catching them early means less drilling and easier treatments.
✔ Developmental monitoring—dentists track jaw growth and tooth eruption to prevent future orthodontic problems.
✔ Preventative care—professional cleanings remove plaque buildup that can lead to gum disease.
A child’s mouth changes rapidly, so six months is the perfect gap to monitor growth and stop problems before they start!
2.Eat Sugary Snacks (Even “Healthy” Ones!)
I would never allow my son to graze on sugary snacks , even the ones labeled as “healthy.” Parents are often surprised to learn that fruit snacks, dried fruit, granola bars, and flavored yogurts can be just as bad as candy for teeth.
Why?
✔ Constant snacking means sugar is always on the teeth, feeding bacteria.
✔ Sticky foods cling to enamel and are harder to clean off.
✔ Even fruit juices contain high levels of natural sugar that can erode enamel.
Smart Tip: If your child does eat something sugary, have them drink water afterward and wait 30 minutes before brushing to protect the enamel.
3. Go to Bed Without Brushing
Kids are tired at bedtime, and so are parents. But skipping brushing at night is a big no-no. When kids sleep, their saliva production slows down, meaning bacteria can multiply more easily and attack teeth all night long.
My non-negotiable rule: My son brushes twice a day, every day—no excuses! If he’s extra tired, we make it fun by turning it into a race or playing his favorite song while he brushes.
4.Avoid Fissure Sealants at Age 6-7
A lot of parents have never heard of fissure sealants, but they are one of the best ways to prevent cavities in kids. The first adult molars erupt around age 6-7, and these teeth have deep grooves where food and bacteria can get stuck.
Solution? A painless, protective coating called a fissure sealant seals these grooves and helps prevent decay. It’s quick, easy, and one of the smartest preventive steps you can take for your child’s dental health.
5. Wait Too Long for an Orthodontist Visit (First Check-Up at Age 7!)
Most parents think orthodontics is something for teenagers, but the first orthodontist visit should happen at age 7. Why so early? Because some problems, like a narrow jaw or bite issues, are much easier to fix before all the adult teeth come in.
If we catch issues early, treatment can be simpler, shorter, and sometimes prevent the need for braces later on. My son will have his first orthodontic evaluation at age 7—even if his teeth look straight!
Final Thoughts: Prevention is Always Better Than Treatment
As both a mom and a dentist, I believe that the best way to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles is to start good habits early. Small, everyday choices—like getting fissure sealants, visiting the orthodontist on time, and brushing consistently—can prevent big dental problems down the road.
So, parents, let’s work together to raise a generation of kids with strong, healthy teeth! Your child’s smile is worth it.
Hammersmith, Chelsea & Marylebone
