Teeth and dental

Keeping your mouth and teeth healthy is important at every age.

Tooth decay can make it hard to eat, smile, and sleep. Sometimes, it means having teeth taken out under general anaesthetic.

In England, a child has a rotten tooth removed in hospital every 10 minutes. That’s nearly 40,000 children each year. Tooth decay is the top reason children aged 5 to 9 go into hospital.

Toothache can also mean missing school or work, and it can stop you enjoying time with family and friends.

• Cut down on sugar in food and drinks. Try the free NHS Food Scanner app to check sugar, salt, fat and calories in everyday items. Look for mostly green and amber labels.
• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste – once before bed.
• Brush for 2 minutes each time.
• Spit, don’t rinse – this helps the toothpaste keep working.
• Visit a dentist regularly – usually once or twice a year. If you have problems, go sooner. Use the NHS website to find a local dentist.

• Breastfeeding is best for babies if you can.
• Don’t add sugar to baby food or drinks.
• Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.
• Help children brush their teeth until they’re 7 years old.
• For babies, sit them on your knee with their head against your chest. For older children, stand behind them and tilt their head back.
• If your child doesn’t like brushing, keep trying. Make it fun or brush your own teeth at the same time.
• Take your child to the dentist when their first tooth appears. Children can see an NHS dentist for free until they’re 18. It’s also free for pregnant women and until their child turns one.

Toothpaste and brushes

• Use a smear of toothpaste for children under 3, and a pea-sized amount for ages 3 to 6.
• Toothpaste should have:
  • At least 1,000 ppm fluoride for under 3s
  • More than 1,350 ppm fluoride for over 3s
• After age 7, children can use adult toothpaste.
• Use sugar-free medicines where possible (until age 7).
• Use a child’s toothbrush – they have soft bristles and small heads.

Watch a short animated video about the town of Toothville with your child. It shows why brushing teeth is important and how to do it properly.

Watch time: 3 mins