Tooth brushing and oral health

Read our top tips to help your child get into good habits with brushing their teeth. 

This includes: 

  • As soon as teeth start to appear, brush your child’s teeth using a small toothbrush designed for children.
  • Encouraging regular toothbrushing at least twice a day for 2 minutes (after breakfast and just before bedtime.)
  • Helping and guiding your child when brushing their teeth until they are at least seven.
  • Don’t forget to make it fun, brushing gently behind the teeth and onto the gums!
  • Encourage children to spit out after brushing and do not rinse, so that the fluoride stays on their teeth longer
  • Using a fluoride toothpaste to help prevent and control tooth decay.
  • Providing healthier alternatives to sugary foods and drinks. 
  • Encouraging regular visits to the dentist when your child gets their first tooth. 
  • Ask your dentist about fluoride varnish or fissure sealing for your child. This is where the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (baby or permanent teeth) are covered with a special thin plastic coating to prevent dental decay
  • Find out more about options for straightening crooked teeth with braces for older children.

You can also find more information on how to look after a baby's teeth.

NHS dental care for children is free!

Find a dentist

Additional resources

 

Department of Health and Social Care Campaign Resources

Resources including posters, leaflets and social media assets. 

Information from https://childrenandfamiliesnewcastle.org.uk/
Printed on December 22nd 2025
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