Brushing and flossing children's teeth

A child’s teeth should be brushed as soon as they start to come through, according to the British Dental Association. You can buy special brushes for babies. Alternatively, a soft flannel wrapped around your finger can substitute for a brush. By starting early, your baby gets used to the daily routine.

Here are some tips for taking care of your child’s teeth:

• Choose a small, child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush. Soaking the brush in warm water for a few minutes before brushing can soften the bristles even more.
• Many dentists recommend using only plain water for brushing up to the age of two. This is because young children swallow toothpaste and if the toothpaste is enriched with fluoride, swallowing too much can lead to tooth discolouration in permanent teeth. Ask your dentist if toothpaste should be used. Also, check the manufacturer's label; some toothpastes are not recommended in children under the age of six. If a toothpaste is to be used, squeeze out about a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste onto the toothbrush.
• Brush your child's teeth twice a day - in the morning and just before bed. Spend two minutes brushing, concentrating a good portion of this time on the back molars. This is an area where cavities often first develop.
• Replace the toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if it shows signs of wear. Never share a toothbrush with others.
• Start flossing your child's teeth once a day as soon as two teeth emerge that touch.
• Ask your dentist about your child's fluoride needs. If your drinking water is not fluoridated, fluoride supplements or fluoride treatments may be needed.
• Ask your dentist about dental sealants. These are thin, plastic protective barriers that fill in the chewing surfaces of the teeth, protecting them from tooth decay. They may be available from some NHS dentists.

When should children brush and floss on their own?

Most children lack the coordination to brush or floss their teeth on their own until about the age of six or seven. Up until this time, remember that the best way to teach a child how to brush their teeth is to lead by example. Allowing your child to watch you brush your teeth teaches them the importance of good oral hygiene.

How safe is fluoride for my child?

Fluoride is safe for children and good for their teeth, as long as it is not used to excess. Fluoride is a natural mineral that protects and strengthens the teeth against the formation of cavities. Using it early in your child's life will provide extra protection for developing teeth. Find out if your tap water contains fluoride by calling your local water authority. If your tap water does not contain fluoride, ask your dentist if you should give your child a fluoride supplement.