Looking after your child's teeth

Five tips for a healthy smile
Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Have regular dental check-ups. Lift the lip every month and check your child’s teeth and gums. Choose healthy snacks. Drink water or milk.

When to brush your teeth

Regular brushing helps prevent decay and gum disease. It's best to get yourself into the habit of brushing twice a day, after breakfast and before bed.

Brush all around the inside surfaces, where teeth meet gums, and also the top chewing surfaces. On the front of the teeth, use tiny circles all around the outside surfaces, close to the gums.

Toothpaste

Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste if you're six years and over.

Spit, don’t rinse

Remember to spit out after tooth brushing. Don't rinse with water, because a small amount of fluoride toothpaste left around the teeth will help protect them.

Get flossing

Flossing cleans away plaque and bits of food from between your teeth and below the gum line. It gets to places your brush can’t reach. 

Checking teeth

It’s a quick and easy way to see whether decay is present in its early, treatable stages. Look for white spots at the gumline, particularly on the upper front teeth. Also look for discoloured areas or pieces of missing teeth.

Check that gums look healthy, not puffy or bleeding. Visit your dental professional if you have any concerns.