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Children 0-6 years
We advise that you start bringing your child(ren) from birth before their teeth erupt.
As well as checking their mouth over we can advise you on how to look after their teeth, as well as let you ask any questions you may have.
Prevention of tooth decay in children aged 0–6 years
Children aged up to 3 years
Children aged up to 3 years:
- Brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste
- Use fluoridated toothpaste with at least 1,350 ppm fluoride
- Brush last thing at night and on one other occasion (usually first thing in the morning)
- Spit out after brushing and do not rinse
- The frequency and amount of sugary food and drinks should be reduced and, when consumed, limited to mealtimes. Sugars should not be consumed more than four times per day
All children aged 3–6 years
Advice:
- Brush last thing at night and on one other occasion (usually first thing in the morning)
- Brushing should be supervised by an adult
- Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing 1,350–1,500 ppm fluoride
- Spit out after brushing and do not rinse
- The frequency and amount of sugary food and drinks should be reduced and, when consumed, limited to mealtimes. Sugars should not be consumed more than four times per day
- Sugar-free medicines should be used where possible
Children giving concern (eg those likely to develop tooth decay, those with special needs)
All advice as above, plus:
- Use a smear or pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing 1,350–1,500 ppm fluoride
- Ensure medication is sugar-free
- Give dietary supplements containing sugar and glucose polymers at mealtimes when possible (unless clinically directed otherwise) and not last thing at night. Parents should be made aware of the potential of supplements to cause decay and ways of minimizing risk
Fluoride Varnish Application
In agreement with National Guidelines, we offer Fluoride varnish applications 2 – 3 times per year to every child and young person aged 3-16 years. For more information please visit