Establishing good oral hygiene habits early in life is key to ensuring your child enjoys a healthy, confident smile as they grow. The Australian Dental Association provides clear, age-specific guidance to help parents and caregivers support children’s dental health from infancy through the school years.
Babies
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Use a damp washcloth to gently clean your baby’s gums, removing bacteria and sugars that can cause early dental problems.
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As soon as the first teeth appear, introduce a soft, child-sized toothbrush, but do not use toothpaste yet.
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Schedule your baby’s first dental visit when their first teeth appear or by 12 months of age.
Toddlers
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Brush your child’s teeth twice daily with a soft, child-sized toothbrush.
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From 18 months, use a child-strength fluoride toothpaste.
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Parents should brush and floss their child’s teeth, focusing on teeth that touch.
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Make brushing and flossing a daily routine to build lifelong habits.
Children (Under Six Years)
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Continue brushing your child’s teeth twice a day and floss teeth that touch.
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Use child-strength fluoride toothpaste, unless otherwise advised by your dentist.
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Supervise brushing to ensure proper technique and prevent swallowing toothpaste.
Children (Over Six Years)
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Begin transitioning to adult-strength fluoride toothpaste.
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Assist your child with brushing and flossing until they are 8–9 years old, when their dexterity allows them to brush effectively on their own.
Tips & Tricks for Healthy Habits
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Spit, Don’t Rinse: Encourage your child to spit out excess toothpaste after brushing rather than rinsing with water. This leaves a protective layer of fluoride on their teeth.
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Use the Right Amount: Only a small ‘pea-sized’ amount of toothpaste is needed.
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Make Brushing Fun: Play a song or use a timer to ensure brushing lasts the recommended two minutes.
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Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for good brushing and listening to instructions, especially after dental visits.
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Brushing Independence: A good indicator that your child is ready to brush solo is when they have the coordination to write with a pen at school.
Setting Up for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
Good oral hygiene starts from day one and evolves as your child grows. By following these age-appropriate steps and tips, you’ll help your child develop strong, healthy teeth and positive dental habits that last a lifetime.
Ready for a Healthier Smile? Book Your Appointment with South Yarra Dental Group
Prioritising your child’s oral health starts with choosing a dental practice dedicated to their wellbeing. At South Yarra Dental Group, we combine advanced technology with a caring, professional team to deliver outstanding dental care for every patient.
Take the next step towards maintaining your child’s healthy, confident smile contact us today to schedule your appointment. Call 03 9827 3314 or email team@sydg.com.au. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our practice and supporting your journey to optimal oral health.
