Dental Care for Children

How can I protect my child's teeth?

To reduce your child's risk of tooth decay and dental erosion:

• take your child to the dentist regularly
• don't give him/her too many sugary or acidic foods and drinks
• encourage your child to brush his/her teeth twice a day with at least 1,000ppm fluoride toothpaste
• encourage your child to spit out toothpaste and not rinse with water, as this reduces the effect of the fluoride
• take advice from your dentist about protective treatments such as fluoride supplements and fissure sealants.

Caring for your child's teeth

This factsheet is for people who would like information about caring for their child's teeth.

Caring for a child's teeth from an early age will help him/her to grow up with healthy teeth and gums. Diet, oral hygiene and visits to the dentist are all important in helping to care for a child's teeth.

Caring for your child's teeth

Your baby’s teeth can be affected by tooth decay straight away, so start cleaning their teeth with a children’s toothpaste as soon as they appear. See Dental care - recommendations to find out how to do this.

Getting your child into a good oral health routine at a young age will ensure they continue to have good oral health when they are older. Speak to your dentist if you have any concerns about the development of your child's teeth or their general oral health.