Dental Hygiene in the Early Years
Dental Hygiene in the Early Years: Why it Matters
It’s easy to assume that baby (milk) teeth aren’t important because they will eventually fall out. However, caring for teeth from an early age plays a vital role in a child’s overall health and wellbeing.
Healthy dental habits support children to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Starting early helps make toothbrushing a normal, positive part of daily routine.
By sharing this guidance and encouraging good dental habits early, we help children build confidence and protect their teeth for life. Consistent care at home, paired with regular dental check-ups, will support strong smiles and healthy development.
When to Start Brushing
Dental care should begin as soon as your child’s first tooth appears.
Children of all ages should brush their teeth twice a day:
Last thing at night, and
On one other occasion during the day be brushed:
Establishing a routine early helps children understand that toothbrushing is a regular and important part of self-care.
Toothpaste and Technique
When brushing your child’s teeth:
Use a fluoride toothpaste containing at least 1,000 parts per million (ppm) fluoride (check the label)
For children under 3, use a tiny smear of toothpaste
For children aged 3–6, use a pea-sized amount
Brush for around 2 minutes, cleaning all surfaces of the teeth and along the gum line
Encourage your child to spit out toothpaste, but avoid rinsing with water so the fluoride can continue to protect their teeth
Young children will need support with brushing. Guiding their hand, supervising closely, and keeping brushing playful helps build positive, lifelong habits.
Diet and Your Child’s Teeth
A healthy diet plays an important role in protecting teeth. It’s not just the amount of sugar children consume, but how often their teeth are exposed to it that matters.
Where possible:
Keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes
Offer water or plain milk as the best everyday drinks
Everyday Tips to Support Healthy Teeth
Small daily actions make a big difference:
Use a small, soft toothbrush suitable for your child’s age.
Replace toothbrushes every 3 months or sooner if bristles wear
Store toothpaste out of reach of young children.
Visiting the Dentist
Dental care for children is free on the NHS up to the age of 18.
It’s recommended that children visit the dentist:
When their first tooth appears, or
By their first birthday
Early visits help children feel comfortable in the dental environment and allow professionals to give tailored advice to support healthy development.
Books we recommend:
Sharing books about brushing can make dental care more engaging and help children understand why it matters.
Let’s Brush Our Teeth by Campbell Books
How to Brush Your Teeth With Snappy Croc by Jane Clarke and Georgie Birkett
Apps we recommend:
These can help encourage children to brush for the full two minutes in a fun and motivating way.
Working Together for Healthy Smiles
By encouraging good dental habits early, we help children build confidence and protect their teeth for life. Consistent care at home, alongside regular dental check-ups, supports strong smiles and healthy development.