Baby teeth are very important. They help your child:

• Chew food properly to help digestion.
• Learn to speak clearly and form words.
• Hold space for adult teeth to grow into the right position.
• Smile with confidence.

If baby teeth are lost too early, adult teeth may come through crooked or in the wrong place.

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When do baby teeth come through?

• Baby teeth usually start to appear at around 6 months of age.
• Most children have all 20 baby teeth by about 2½ years.

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When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?

You should start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.

Brushing should become part of your child’s daily routine, just like washing hands, bath time and brushing hair.

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How should I clean my baby’s teeth?

For babies and toddlers:

• Sit your child on your knee, facing away from you.
• Gently support their chin so you can see and reach their teeth.

To brush:

• Use a small, soft toothbrush designed for babies.
• Use a smear of toothpaste with at least 1,000 ppm fluoride for children under 3.
• Brush using small, gentle circular movements.
• Clean all tooth surfaces, the gums, and behind the teeth.

Try to brush:

• Last thing at night, and
• At least one other time during the day.

Praise and encouragement really help build good habits.

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What should I avoid?

Some habits can affect how the mouth and teeth develop.

Try to:

• Avoid dummies where possible.
• Discourage thumb or finger sucking.

These habits can change the shape of the mouth and may increase the need for braces later.

If your baby does use a dummy, choose one with an orthodontic teat.

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Avoid sugary drinks and foods

• Never dip dummies or teething rings in honey, syrup or sugar.
• Do not add sugar to bottles or drinks.
• Avoid giving sugary drinks in bottles.
• Do not let your baby go to sleep with a bottle.

Sugary drinks and foods can cause tooth decay, pain and infection – even in baby teeth.

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A healthy start lasts a lifetime

Looking after baby teeth helps protect adult teeth later on.

Good brushing habits started early can last for life.

If you’re unsure about brushing, toothpaste, or feeding, speak to your dental team. They’re there to help.