TOP 10 ORAL HEALTH TIPS
FOR PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN
Use low fluoride toothpaste
from 18 months to six years of
age.
Use a small pea-size
amount of toothpaste.
Spitting out can be difficult
for small children. You may
need to show them how to
do it.
Water is the best drink for
preschoolers
Remember that shop bought
bottled water usually does not
have fluoride in it.
Plain milk is also a healthy
drink for children. Children
over two years of age can
drink reduced fat milk.
Limit sugary foods
Limit foods high in added
sugars. Eating foods with high
levels of sugar causes tooth
decay.
Avoid using foods as
incentives or rewards for
good behaviour.
Encourage children who are
still sucking their fingers,
thumbs or using dummies to
stop
To help your child to break the
habit, try encouragement and
distractions. Offer a reward for a
period without sucking. You could
mark progress on a chart or
calendar.
Ask your dentist how often
your child should visit
Your dentist will discuss your
child’s needs and plan how
often your child should have
their teeth checked.
SOURCE:https://www.dhsv.org.au/dental-health/general-dental-
advice/preschool-children
Brush teeth and along the
gum line twice a day
Brushing teeth removes
plaque that causes tooth
decay.
Gently brush in small circles
along the gum line.
It should have a small head
and soft bristles.
Preschoolers don't need
fruit juice or other sweet
drinks
Fruit juice and sweet drinks
can increase the risk of tooth
decay.
Fresh fruit is a better
alternative. It provides the
same nutrients, plus fiber and
is more filling than juice.
Healthy meals and snacks
are important for healthy
teeth
Fruits and vegetables are an
important part of healthy eating.
Enjoy a wide variety of healthy
foods every day including fruits,
vegetables, grains and cereals,
dairy, lean meat, fish and eggs.
Children should have an
oral health assessment by 2
years of age
By the time children are at
preschool, they should have had
an oral health assessment. If
not, make an appointment with
your local dental clinic.
See your dentist if your
child damages their teeth
If your child knocks out a baby
tooth, do not put it back in place.
This can damage the adult tooth
underneath the gum. If
concerned see your dentist.
Always seek immediate advice
from your dentist if an adult
tooth is knocked out or
damaged.