Oral Health Advice for Babies and Toddlers

“When should my child have their first dental check-up?”

“How can we prevent tooth decay?”

“Is baby teeth important? Won’t they fall out anyway?”

Here’s WHY baby teeth are important, and WHY good oral health habits from a young age IS important:

1. Healthy mouth is important for a happy, confident child.
2. Baby teeth are essential for guiding the position of adult teeth.
3. Starting good oral health habits early, have a life-long positive impact on your child’s general health and well-being.
4. Early detection and treatment is the best outcome.

OUR TIPS FOR GOOD ORAL HEALTH HABITS

1. Start early. Start wiping your babies mouth with a clean wet gauze or washcloth daily.
2. Don’t let baby your sleep with a bottle.
3. The first dental visit should be within 6 months of first tooth erupting or by 12 months of age. Whichever is first. (If you notice anything out of ordinary before this time, it’s a good idea to book an appointment as soon as possible)
4. Use age appropriate toothpaste. Babies from 18 months can use a pea-sized low fluoride toothpaste. Encourage your child to spit out toothpaste, but don’t rinse.
5. Brush twice daily. Children will need help from an adult until they are 7-8 years old.
6. Make brushing fun. Sing a song or brush to an app.
7. Water is the best beverage. Fruit juice and sweet drinks can cause tooth decay and should be avoided.
8. Eat healthy foods for healthy teeth. Avoid processed foods or sugary drinks.