10/02/2025

Keeping Kids' Teeth Healthy: Tips for Every Age

February marks National Children's Dental Health Month in the UK, and it’s the perfect time to focus on keeping those little smiles bright and healthy!

Did you know that nearly 1 in 4 five-year-olds in England have experienced tooth decay? Or that last year alone, over 47,000 kids and teens had teeth removed in NHS hospitals due to severe decay? These numbers are a wake-up call, but the good news is tooth decay is almost entirely preventable!

Good oral health starts early, and by following some simple steps, you can help your child develop healthy habits that last a lifetime. Let’s break it down by age:

Babies (0-1 Year) 

💡 Healthy teeth start before the first tooth even appears!

✔️ Wipe gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings to keep bacteria at bay
✔️ As soon as the first tooth pops up, start brushing with a soft toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste
✔️ First dental check-up by age one! (Yes, even with just a tooth or two!)
✔️ Avoid putting your baby to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice—this can lead to "bottle tooth decay"

Toddlers (1-3 Years)

💡 This is when little ones start becoming independent—but they still need your help!

✔️ Brush twice a day with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
✔️ Make it fun! Try singing a song or using a toothbrush with their favourite character
✔️ Limit sugary snacks and drinks—water and milk are the best choices!
✔️ Teach them to drink from a cup instead of a bottle by their first birthday

Preschoolers (3-5 Years)

💡 Now’s the time to build lifelong habits!

✔️ Let them try brushing on their own, but supervise to make sure they’re doing it right
✔️ Encourage healthy snacks like cheese, yogurt, and crunchy veggies instead of sweets
✔️ Regular dental check-ups (every six months) keep their teeth in tip-top shape!
✔️ If they’re thumb-sucking, start gently encouraging them to stop to avoid future dental issues

School-Age Kids (6-12 Years)

💡 They’re getting more independent—but still need guidance!

✔️ Make sure they brush for two minutes, twice a day (using a timer or fun app can help!)
✔️ Flossing matters! Start teaching them how to do it properly
✔️ Watch out for hidden sugars in snacks and drinks like fruit juices and flavoured yogurts
✔️ Ask the dentist about sealants—a simple, painless way to prevent cavities

Teens (13-19 Years)

💡 Independence grows, but dental health still needs attention!

✔️ Braces? Retainers? Make sure they’re cleaning them properly
✔️ Talk about the dangers of smoking, vaping, and oral piercings—all of which can damage their teeth and gums
✔️ Encourage healthy eating and drinking habits (energy drinks and sodas are loaded with sugar and acid!)
✔️ Remind them that a great smile = confidence! Taking care of their teeth now will pay off for years to come

Final Thoughts

Every child deserves a healthy, happy smile! By making dental care fun and consistent, you can set your little one up for a lifetime of strong teeth and bright smiles.

Small habits = big results! Start early, stay consistent, and make it a family affair. Your child’s future smile will thank you!

When was your child’s last dental check-up? If it’s been a while, now’s the perfect time to book one!