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Looking after your child's teeth
A regular teeth cleaning routine is essential for good dental health. The following information can help prevent your child’s teeth from decaying.
Recommendation
Brush your child’s teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste containing (1350 - 1500ppm) fluoride toothpaste. Supervise your child brushing up to the age of 7 years.
How often?
Brush with your child in the morning and last thing before bedtime. Help your child to brush their teeth properly by brushing teeth together
What to use
For children aged up to three years old, use a smear of toothpaste (about a grain of rice), and for three to six years old, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste, and don’t rinse after brushing.
Tips for making it fun
Use a timer, song, or sticker chart to encourage brushing.
When to see a dentist
Regular dental check-ups every 6 months. Ask your dentist about fluoride varnish application.
Sugar and snacks
Milk, water, fruit and vegetables are better for your child’s teeth when eating or drinking between meals. If your child is having something that is sugary, it is best to keep it to mealtimes.
Quick facts
Lollipops and sweet drinks are particularly damaging because they bathe the teeth in sugar for long periods of time. The acid in drinks like fruit juice and squash can harm teeth as well. Dried fruit, such as raisins, can also bathe the teeth with sugar if eaten frequently between meals. Early childhood cavities are common but preventable.
Healthy habit tip
Make brushing a family routine, children copy adults.
A regular teeth cleaning routine is essential for good dental health. The following information can help prevent your child’s teeth from decaying.
Special considerations
Children with special needs may need adapted toothbrushes, non-foaming and flavourless toothpaste. They may also need assistance.
Risks / what to avoid
Frequent sugary snacks or drinks can cause early childhood cavities.
Benefits of good oral health
Strong teeth, reduced risk of cavities, good oral hygiene habits.
A regular teeth cleaning routine is essential for good dental health. The following information can help prevent your child’s teeth from decaying.
Recommendation
Brush your child’s teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste containing (1350 - 1500ppm) fluoride toothpaste. Supervise your child brushing up to the age of 7 years.
How often?
Brush with your child in the morning and last thing before bedtime. Help your child to brush their teeth properly by brushing teeth together
What to use
For children aged up to three years old, use a smear of toothpaste (about a grain of rice), and for three to six years old, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste, and don’t rinse after brushing.