Why baby teeth matter

Baby teeth help children eat, speak and smile, and they keep space for the adult teeth. Tooth decay is painful, can cause infections, and makes it hard for a child to eat and sleep. The good news is that tooth decay can be prevented with simple daily habits.

Brushing

  • Start cleaning as soon as the first tooth appears, with a soft cloth or a small, soft toothbrush.
  • Brush twice a day, in the morning and before sleep, using fluoride toothpaste.
  • For children under three, use only a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. From three years, use a pea-sized amount.
  • Teach children to spit out the toothpaste and not swallow it. There is no need to rinse with a lot of water afterwards.
  • Help or watch children brush until they are about seven or eight years old.
  • Brush all sides of every tooth and along the gums, for about two minutes.

Less sugar, healthier teeth

  • Sweets, biscuits, sweet tea, juice and soft drinks feed the germs that cause decay. How often a child has sugar matters more than how much.
  • Keep sweet foods for mealtimes rather than snacking on them all day.
  • Offer water, milk, fruit, bread, cheese or nuts (for older children) as snacks.
  • Never put a baby to sleep with a bottle of milk, juice or sweet tea.
  • Do not dip a pacifier in sugar or honey.

Check your child's teeth

Look at your child's teeth regularly. White or brown spots, black holes, bad breath that does not go away, or pain when eating can be signs of decay. Take your child to a dentist or health worker for a check, ideally once a year, and sooner if you see any of these signs.

When to see a doctor

See a dentist or doctor if your child has toothache, bleeding or swollen gums, or a broken tooth. Go to the nearest hospital immediately if your child has swelling of the face or jaw with fever, difficulty opening the mouth, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.

For advice on your child's teeth, book a consultation with a doctor in the app or visit a clinic.