Healthy oral care habits for children

Start early

Start oral care for your baby during the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth at least twice a day.

Two minutes twice daily

• Your child should brush their teeth for two minutes twice daily to help reduce their risk of tooth decay and gum disease. 

Limit sugar to 3 teaspoons

• For best oral care, try to limit your child’s intake of sugars to approximately 3 teaspoons daily.

Don’t rinse immediately

• Your child should not rinse their mouth with water straight after brushing, they should spit out any excess toothpaste instead. 

Use the right amount

• Easily measure the right amount of Flouride toothpaste – the size of a grain of rice for children younger than 3, and the size of a pea for children over 3.

Replace your brush regularly

• Your child’s toothbrush should be replaced every 3 months or when the bristles are splayed out, worn-looking or missing.

Dentist before 1st birthday

• Take your child to the dentist/primary healthcare provider after their first tooth has pushed through and no later than their first birthday.