Dental Health Week 5-11 August 2019 – Wednesday

Baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth. They need to be cared for in the same way. Children aren’t able to do this for themselves so parents do need to take control. By creating good habits now, children will transition to the primary carer of their teeth with no issues.

Babies

Use a damp washcloth and clean your baby’s gums by gently rubbing them.
As teeth appear introduce a soft, child-size toothbrush.
Do not use toothpaste.
Visit a dentist when the first teeth appear or by 12 months.

Toddlers

Brush with a soft child-size toothbrush.
Use child-strength fluoride toothpaste from 18 months of age.
Parents should brush and floss their child’s teeth.
Brush twice daily.
Floss teeth that touch together.

Children (under 6 years)

Parents should continue to brush their child’s teeth, twice daily.
Floss teeth that touch together.
Use child-strength fluoride toothpaste, unless your dentist recommends otherwise.

Children (over six years)

Assist your child with brushing and flossing their teeth twice daily until 8-9 years of age.
Use adult-strength fluoride toothpaste.

Tips and tricks

1) Spit out excess toothpaste, do not rinse out the mouth with water.
2) Don’t use too much toothpaste. A small ‘pea sized’ amount is all you need.
3) Make brushing fun! Play a song or use an appropriate smartphone app as a reminder to brush for the recommended two minutes.
4) Use positive reinforcement when visiting the dentist. Praise your child on their listening skills and ability to follow instructions.
5) A reference to indicate your child can begin brushing solo is whether they have their ‘pen licence’ for writing with a pen at school.

So this Dental Health Week 5-11 August 2019 – Wednesday make an appointment today to get on track with your child’s oral health