We recommend that parents supervise tooth brushing until their children are seven or eight years old, either by brushing their teeth yourself or, if they brush their own teeth, by watching how they do it.
From the age of seven or eight, they should be able to brush their own teeth, but it’s still a good idea to watch them now and again to make sure they brush properly and for about two minutes.
Some other tips for a healthy smile:
- Brush your child’s teeth for about two minutes twice a day: once just before bedtime and at least one other time during the day.
- Encourage them to spit out excess toothpaste, but not to rinse with lots of water. Rinsing with water after tooth brushing will wash away the fluoride and make it less effective.
- Children from the age of seven can use regular toothpaste, as long as it contains 1350-1500 parts per million (ppm) fluoride. Check the toothpaste packet if you’re not sure, or ask your dentist.
- Children up to the age of six who don’t have tooth decay can use a lower-strength toothpaste, but make sure it contains at least 1,000ppm fluoride.
Get in touch to chat through booking an appointment for your child on 01283 735777.
