Remember to keep your child’s mouth healthy
You can do this by following these simple tips:
- Brush teeth and gums at least twice daily; in the morning and last thing at night.
- For children under three years of age use a smear of toothpaste on the brush. For children aged three years and above, use a pea-sized amount. Use toothpaste containing at least 1,000 parts per million (ppm) fluoride.
- Parents and carers should supervise toothbrushing until children are at least 7 years of age. From 7 years of age, many children can brush their own teeth but will still require supervision, motivation and possibly assistance.
- ‘Spit, don’t rinse’ after brushing – this gives the toothpaste time to work to protect teeth.
- Keep food and drinks containing sugar to mealtimes only.
- Pasteurised milk and tap water are the safest drinks for teeth.
- Register with a dentist and visit as advised.
What age is your child?
Baby and adult teeth develop before a child is born, early acceptance of toothbrushing, weaning and healthy eating are essential to give your child the best possible start.
There’s lots you can do to keep your child’s first teeth healthy, including teaching toothbrushing skills, food and drinks for healthy teeth and regular visits to the dentist.
Find out what you can do to continue good oral health habits in older children including toothbrushing, tooth-friendly foods and drinks, and fluoride varnishing.