Children's Oral Health

Tips to get Toddlers Brushing

• Small mouths need small, soft toothbrushes
• Use a smear of full-strength fluoride toothpaste
• Help children under the age of eight to make sure they clean all their teeth
• Spit, but don't rinse after brushing teeth.  Remains of fluoride from the toothpaste stays in the mouth to continue protecting against tooth decay
• Make sure your child can reach the sink.  A small footstool may help
• Good habits start early so start brushing your child's teeth from the very first tooth

To help encourage toddlers and young children to brush their teeth twice a day download our free Tooth Brushing Chart (as seen on the right).  Click to download.

Remember to:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Drink water and milk
• Choose tooth-friendly healthy snacks

Information supplied by the Canterbury Community Primary Health Organisation and the Canterbury District Health Board.