Learning how to prevent cavities for your child is an important start to a healthy mouth and body. Taking care of your teeth and gums everyday is important for everyone. Keeping your teeth healthy during pregnancy also supports your baby’s dental health. 

The Interior Health (IH) Dental Program provides strategies and educational programs that help prevent early childhood tooth decay. The Interior Health’s dental team is here to support you and your child’s oral health

IH services include oral health prevention programs for caregivers and their children 0-4 years. We also promote oral health through community engagement, and provide resources, dental health education kits (3-6 years), educational sessions for community groups, health-care providers, caregivers and children ages 0-5 years. The Dental Program also takes part in the Provincial Kindergarten School Dental Survey.

Children should see an oral health professional within six months of getting their first tooth or by one year of age. Please note we don’t offer dentist chair services such as cleanings or fillings. You can search for private practice dentists here.

Find dental program services in your area.

 

Resources

Dental Education Kit
Lift the Lip Cavity Prevention Program Brochure

Give your child a healthy smile for life!

Keeping a Mouth Healthy From the Start - 2-Month Visit
Tips for Teething - 4-Month Visit
Baby’s First Teeth - 6-Month Visit
Brush Up on Baby’s Teeth - 12-Month Visit
Toddlers Teeth (and beyond) - 18-Month Visit
Breaking Your Toddler’s Bottle Habit

A bottle habit is when a toddler uses a bottle for comfort rather than nutrition.

Healthy smiles for your child - Ages 1 to 4
Dollars for Dental Treatment

Dental coverage assistance and funding programs

Medicine and Your Child's Mouth
Dental Program: Pregnancy & Oral Health

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a referral required?

No referral is necessary, but an appointment is required.

Health-care providers and community partners can complete this referral form to help caregivers and families request services from the dental program.

Dental Services Referral Form

Are there eligibility restrictions?

  Yes, the Lift the Lip Dental Program is for children 0-4 years of age.

How to I get an appointment for the Lift the Lip cavity prevention program?

Please contact your local health centre.

What services do dental staff provide?

  • Cavity risk assessments
  • Lift the Lip cavity prevention program
  • Dental screening
  • Oral health education
  • Fluoride varnish application
  • Pregnant mom and new mom’s oral health education
  • Screening relating to prenatal and newborn oral care

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