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Five tips for baby teeth

1. Even before your baby’s teeth appear, gently wipe their gums with a moistened soft cloth once a day. During bath time is a good opportunity for this.


2. Once the baby or primary teeth start to appear, use a baby’s toothbrush with a small head and soft, rounded bristles.


3. Up to the age of 18 months, teeth should be brushed with plain water, once a day, after the last feed of the evening.


4. There are special low-fluoride toothpastes that have been developed for young children and these can be introduced from around the age of 18 months. Use only a smear of toothpaste, and teach your child to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.


5. Store all toothpastes out of your child’s reach. Some small children live the taste of toothpaste and will eat it if given the chance.

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8 Toothbrush Tips

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1. Use a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles


2. Clean the teeth, gums and tongue every morning and night


3. You should have your own toothbrush: don’t use anybody else’s


4. Store toothbrushes in a clean, dry, airy place so that they can dry out between uses


5. Store toothbrushes separately so they do not touch each others toothbrushes


6. After brushing, the toothbrush should be rinsed thoroughly under fast running water to remove toothpaste, bits of food and plague. The shake off water from the toothbrush to help with drying.


7. Replace toothbrushes regularly and when they become ‘ Shaggy’ or clogged with toothpaste


8. Also replace toothbrushes after illness such as colds and flu or mouth infections.