Child Dental Care: A Parent's Guide

Starting good dental habits early gives your child a strong chance of healthy teeth for life. Brush twice a day from the first tooth, start dental visits early, and keep sugary snacks in check. Here's a parent's guide.

1. Start brushing early

Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste — a rice-grain smear for under-3s, a pea-sized amount after that. Start as soon as the first tooth appears. By about 6 or 7, most children can brush themselves, but supervise to check they're doing it well.

2. Schedule regular check-ups

Regular check-ups catch problems early and help your child grow comfortable with the dentist, which lowers the chance of dental fear later. Early, positive visits set the tone.

3. Watch the diet

Limit sugary snacks and drinks, the main driver of childhood cavities. Water and milk are healthier everyday choices than juice or soft drinks, and it helps to keep sweets to mealtimes rather than grazing through the day.

4. Make it fun

Turn brushing into something your child enjoys — count the teeth as you go, or play a two-minute song. For more ways to build the habit, see teaching kids good oral hygiene habits.

When your child is older, we can advise on braces if their teeth need straightening. Book a children's dentistry visit and we'll help keep their smile healthy.