Start Early: Baby Teeth Matter!You might think baby teeth aren’t a big deal because they’ll fall out anyway, but they’re essential for your child’s development. Baby teeth:
In the UK, 23.4% of 5-year-olds have tooth decay, according to Public Health England (PHE), and it remains the most common reason for hospital admissions in children aged 6 to 10 years old. Before your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s time to introduce dental care. Gently clean their teeth with a soft, damp cloth or a baby toothbrush twice a day. For babies under three, use just a smear of fluoride toothpaste containing at least 1,000ppm (parts per million) fluoride, as recommended by the NHS. Make Brushing Fun!Let’s face it—convincing kids to brush their teeth can be tricky. But turning it into an enjoyable routine can work wonders. Try these tips:
UK Tip: The Brush DJ app, endorsed by the NHS, plays two minutes of music while you brush, making the routine more exciting for kids and adults alike. Sugar Smarts: Taming the Sweet ToothKids and sugary treats often go hand in hand, but sugar can cause tooth decay if not managed carefully. According to the British Dental Association, excessive sugar consumption is a leading factor in the UK’s high rates of tooth decay among children . A few small ways to protect your child’s teeth without taking away their favourite treats entirely:
Fact: Children in England consume almost three times the recommended amount of sugar, with sugary drinks being a primary culprit. Cutting back can significantly reduce the risk of dental decay . Make Regular to the Dentist Visits a PriorityYour child’s first dental visit should be when their first tooth comes in, or by their first birthday. Regular check-ups allow your dental team to catch any problems early and make your child feel comfortable in the dental chair. UK Fact: NHS dental care is free for children under 18 in England and Wales (or under 19 if in full-time education). This makes regular visits accessible to every family, try to register your child as soon after birth as possible as it can be difficult to find a dentist taking on new patients. Pro Tip: Prepare your child for the visit by reading a fun story about going to the dentist or role-playing a dental appointment at home. Fluoride: A Simple, Effective ProtectorFluoride is a key ingredient in preventing tooth decay. In the UK, the NHS recommends using a toothpaste with:
Fluoride varnishes, applied by dental professionals, can reduce tooth decay by up to 43%. Children in the UK who are at risk of decay should receive these treatments at least twice a year once their first teeth appear . Good Habits Starts with you. Parents and caregivers are your child’s biggest role models. Show them the importance of brushing twice a day, flossing (once they’re old enough), and making healthy food choices. Remember, even small efforts add up to big results over time! They look up to you, and will want to do what you do. The more importance you put on a healthy smile, the more chance they will to. Celebrate Progress, Not PerfectionIt’s all about progress, not perfection. Some days might be easier than others, and that’s okay. Celebrate your child’s efforts to build their confidence and enthusiasm for oral care. At Kirsty’s Smile Academy, I believe every child deserves a smile they can be proud of. By starting early, making dental care fun, and leading by example, you’re setting your little ones on the path to a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles. Your Next Steps:Ready to dive deeper into family oral care? Check out more of our tips on Kirsty’s Smile Academy website. Together, we can make caring for teeth a joyful part of every child’s day. References
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KirstyOral hygiene educator |
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