Caring For Your Baby’s or Toddler’s Teeth
Caring for your baby’s and toddler’s teeth is essential for their oral health. Establishing good oral hygiene habits from an early age can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here is a summary of how to care for their teeth:
Start early
Begin oral hygiene before any teeth first appear. Be sure to very gently wipe your baby’s gums after feeding with a clean, damp cloth.
First dental visit
Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when the first tooth erupts. If you’re not sure when that may happen, see our teething chart.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Until 18 months of age, don’t use toothpaste. A toothbrush should be used with water only (as recommended by the Australian Dental Association).
- Use a soft, age-appropriate toothbrush to clean your child’s teeth.
- For children aged 18 months to 3 years old, use a rice grain-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste. For ages 3-6, use a pea-sized amount.
- This low-fluoride toothpaste is often referred to as children’s toothpaste.
Brushing routine
Brush your child’s teeth gently but thoroughly, at least twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime. Supervise brushing until they can do it effectively on their own.
Find out more about brushing your baby’s or toddler’s teeth.
Diet
- Limit sugary foods and drinks, including fruit juices.
- Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
Sippy cups
Avoid prolonged use of sippy cups with sugary beverages. Use water as a go-to drink between meals.
Pacifiers and thumb-sucking
Try to wean your child from these habits after age 1 to prevent dental issues.
Teething
Provide teething rings or clean, cold washcloths to soothe discomfort.
Regular dental check-ups
Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, usually every six months. Herald Ave Dental is a trusted kids dentist in Willetton.
Teach good oral habits
Educate your child about the importance of good oral hygiene and the consequences of neglecting it.
Be a role model
Set a good example by maintaining your own oral health practices.
Herald Avenue Dental Centre
Caring for you little one’s oral hygiene and teeth from an early age is so important. We are committed to helping you on this journey and are always here to help.
If you have any questions, worries, or it’s time for a dental checkup, it’s so easy to make an appointment. Either book online or contact us. Our dental clinic is located at 7 Herald Avenue, Willetton.
Find out more about our dental treatments for children.
