Often, children enjoy brushing because they are learning a new skill and copying adults. Introducing healthy dental habits from a young age teaches your child how to care for their teeth throughout their life. It is important to make it fun so they can develop a positive relationship with good dental hygiene. You can try the following when your child is brushing their teeth:

• playing a song
• brushing as a family
• singing a song
• using a timer
• involving your child’s toys.

Your child’s baby teeth are important, and they need your help to look after them to keep them healthy. Below are some tips on how to look after your child's teeth:

• brush your child’s teeth:
  • with a small, pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste
  • with a small toothbrush that has soft bristles
  • twice a day, such as morning and night to help set a good routine
• book regular dental check-ups every 6-12 months
• teach your child to spit out toothpaste instead of swallowing
• don’t rinse with water after brushing, as the fluoride from the toothpaste is working to protect your child’s teeth
• don’t forget to brush your child’s tongue too
• when your child has two teeth next to each other, around two years of age, flossing daily is recommended
• help your child brush and floss until they are around eight years of age
• lift their lip to check for signs of tooth decay once a month
• offer your preschooler healthy snacks such as fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, and plain yoghurt
• don’t share cutlery or utensils. Cleaning items they put in their mouth with your saliva is also not advised, as these actions can pass bacteria and germs leading to tooth decay in your child’s mouth.

See the Teeth and gum care factsheet for more information.