Brushing your baby's teeth

Begin to use a toothbrush and tap water to clean your child’s teeth as soon as the back molars emerge. From the age of two onwards teeth should be brushed using a fluoride toothpaste. If there is a high risk of tooth decay, your dentist may advise you to begin brushing your child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste before the age of two.

Children’s toothbrushes have very small heads and soft bristles. They may be available to buy from:

• your dental surgery
• a pharmacy
• a large supermarket

The easiest way to brush a baby’s teeth is to sit them on your knee with their head resting against your chest. Brush the teeth in small circles, covering all the surfaces of the teeth.

Brushing your baby’s teeth will get your baby used to teeth brushing as part of their everyday routine. You can set a good example by letting them watch you brushing your teeth.

Brushing your child's teeth

You will need to help your child brush their teeth until they are at least seven years of age. It is important to help them up until this time to ensure they are brushing their teeth correctly.