How to keep your children's teeth super healthy

Why Baby Teeth Matter

People may wonder is there a need to look after a child’s first set of teeth as they can often be deemed as ‘just baby teeth’. But you should start the conversation early with your dentists about your child’s oral care needs as soon as their first tooth makes an appearance.

The most common questions parents ask us is when do their children need to start brushing their teeth and how to get them to do it. In this blog, we want to share with you some useful tips that might give a helping hand in your child’s dental routine.

Most importantly don’t be put off if your child is resistance to brushing their teeth at the start, it’s totally normal it’s a foreign concept to them, they don’t understand why or what you are trying to do but keep persisting with it. Do it at the same every day, morning and night and get a routine going, it’s key because if you skip it once or twice then they might think it’s optional and that’s when the real trouble starts.

Brushing Basics for Different Ages

When to start brushing teeth

0-2 Years

Start cleaning aa baby’s teeth as soon as their first teeth
Use a soft brush and water only
Do not use toothpaste
Cleaning is very important to avoid tooth decay
Routine is very important at the start and NEVER skip brushing morning and night

2-7 Years

Only use a small pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste
Brush teeth twice a day – morning & night
It takes between 2-3 minutes to brush teeth correctly

Making Brushing Fun

Copy-cat: Children always look up to their older siblings or parents so if they see you brushing they will want to be just like you.
Egg timers: These are a great and simple way to encourage your child to brush their teeth for 2-3mins
Reward Charts: This incentive is a perfect way to motivate your child to brush BOTH morning and night. There are loads to choose from on www.rewardchart4kids.com
Apps: Here are some apps that you may find helpful Brush DJ, Brush Up, Brush Teeth with the Wiggles. Check out their benefits below!
Sing Along & Brush: Get silly and make up a brushing song together! Something like "Brush, brush, brush your teeth, chase those sugar bugs away!" to a familiar tune helps make it a game.
Story Heroes: Those pesky "Sugar Bugs" want to make holes in your little one's teeth. But they, with their trusty toothbrush, are the brave hero protecting the smile kingdom!
Flavour Adventure: Let your child choose a fun flavour like bubblegum or strawberry – they'll be excited to use it!
Their Favourite Character: Does your little one adore monsters or animals? Let them pick a toothbrush with their favourite character on it. Brushing time becomes playtime!

Address Common Concerns

"I Hate This!": Stay calm! If your child throws a tantrum, take a break and try again later. Make it quick, positive, and lots of praise ("Good job getting those back teeth!"). Over time, it'll become routine. If the struggle continues, your dentist may have extra tips.

First Dentist Visit: Aim for that first dentist trip around their first birthday, or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing. They'll check for healthy development and get your little one used to the dentist's chair.

If you’ve any questions regarding healthy toddler teeth, feel free to contact us via social media.

Love, Lisa & Vanessa Xx