Cavities are one of the most common childhood dental issues—but the good news is, they’re also preventable! At Corner Canyon Family Dental, we work with Draper families every day to create healthy, lasting dental habits that help kids avoid tooth decay from the start.
If you're a parent looking to protect your child’s smile, here are seven simple ways to prevent cavities in children, along with expert insight from our local pediatric dental team.
1. Start Dental Care Early
Dental care should begin as soon as your child’s first tooth appears—usually around 6 months old. Even baby teeth are important for chewing, speaking, and guiding permanent teeth into place.
We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by age one. This helps them get comfortable in the dental chair and allows our Draper team to catch early signs of decay or misalignment.
2. Brush (and Floss!) Every Day
Kids should brush twice a day for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste (just a tiny smear for babies and a pea-sized amount for kids over 3). Don’t forget to floss once a day, especially when their teeth start to touch.
Parents: you’ll likely need to assist your child with brushing and flossing until they’re at least 6–8 years old. A good rule of thumb? If they can tie their shoes, they’re ready to brush solo.
3. Watch the Sugar
Draper is full of delicious treats (we love a good soda stop too), but sugar is a leading cause of cavities. Try to limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially sticky candies, gummies, and juice.
Instead, encourage:
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Fresh fruit or veggies
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Cheese and yogurt
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Water with meals
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Xylitol gum or rinses (for older kids)
If your child does have a sweet snack, have them rinse with water or brush afterward to reduce the acid attack on their enamel.
4. Drink More Water
In Utah’s dry climate, staying hydrated isn’t just good for the body—it’s great for teeth. Water helps wash away food and bacteria and boosts saliva production, which is the mouth’s natural defense against cavities.
If you live in Draper, your tap water likely contains fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel. So encourage your kids to drink water throughout the day, especially after eating.
5. Get Regular Dental Checkups
Routine cleanings and exams every six months are key for preventing cavities in kids. During a checkup, we:
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Remove built-up plaque and tartar
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Check for early signs of decay
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Offer tips for better brushing at home
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Apply fluoride treatments for extra protection
Our team at Corner Canyon Family Dental makes visits fun and positive for kids of all ages—so you can stay on top of their dental health without the stress.
6. Ask About Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a fast, painless way to protect your child’s molars—the back teeth most prone to cavities. We apply a thin, protective coating over the chewing surface that blocks food and bacteria from getting stuck in deep grooves.
Sealants are recommended for kids as soon as their permanent molars come in, typically around age 6 and again at 12.
7. Lead by Example
Kids pick up on your habits! Let them see you brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist. Make dental care part of your daily family routine. You can even:
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Set a timer and brush together
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Use fun apps or songs
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Give small rewards for healthy habits
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Let them choose their own toothbrush
The more positive you make the experience, the more likely your child will build lifelong healthy habits.
A Healthy Smile Starts at Corner Canyon Family Dental
Helping your child avoid cavities doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes consistency, good habits, and a little expert help. At Corner Canyon Family Dental, we’re here to support Draper families with gentle, personalized pediatric dental care that keeps kids smiling.
Whether your child needs their first checkup, a fluoride treatment, or cavity prevention tips, we’re ready to help. We treat every patient like family—because that’s what you deserve.