Dental Health Tips for Children

  1. Eat well
    1. Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods 
    2. Enjoy healthy snacks
    3. Avoid snacking on sugary and sticky foods and sweets between meals
    4. Milk foods help protect your teeth

    Drink well 
    1. Tap water is the best drink between meals and at bedtime 
    2. Avoid drinking acidic and sugary drinks between meals
    3. Choose sugar-free medicine

    Clean well
    1. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, especially before bed
    2. Brush your teeth and gums with a toothbrush that has soft bristles and a small head
    3. Clean between your teeth every day with floss, dental woodsticks or an interdental brush
    4. Brush your child ’s teeth:
    - 18 months to 5 years – pea-sized smear of low fluoride toothpaste
    - 6 years and older - pea-sized smear of standard fluoride toothpaste
    Assist your child with brushing at least once a day until he or she is 8 or 9 years old

    Play well
    1. Wear a professionally fitted mouthguard when you are playing and training for any sport where there is a risk of mouth injury
    2. You will need to wear a full-faced helmet or face guard for some sports and recreational activities
    3. Provide a safe environment for your child, in the home and in the playground
    4. Adult supervision helps to prevent childhood injuries
    5. If an injury occurs seek professional advice immediately

    Stay well 
    1. Children ought to have their first dental visit by their 1st birthday
    2. Check with a dental professional to see if your child needs sealants or a fluoride treatment
    3. Have regular check-ups – gum disease may not be painful until it’s too late

    What is tooth decay and how can we prevent it?
    Tooth decay is caused when bacteria that is present in the mouth turns sugar into acid.  The acid then produces holes in teeth, which is known as decay.  Foods that are high in natural or added sugars such as sugary beverages like fruit juices, cordials and soft drinks can contribute to tooth decay.  These drinks (juices, cordials and soft drinks) also have high acid levels, which can play a major role in the development of tooth erosion especially when sipped slowly or swished and swirled around the mouth. The Australian Dental Association recommends that we limit cordials, juices and soft drinks due to their link with dental problems.

    Bowling tooth