Top 5 Oral Health Tips for Primary School Children (5-12 Years)
1.Use a fluoride toothpaste :
- Use a pea sized amount of low fluoride toothpaste from 18 months to six years of age.
- From six years of age, use a pea sized amount of standard fluoride toothpaste (Unless otherwise advised by an oral health professional).
- Encourage your child to spit out toothpaste after brushing, but not rinse.
2. Brush Teeth and Along the Gum Twice a Day
- Brushing teeth removes plaque (The build-up on teeth) That causes tooth decay.
- Brush all surfaces of the teeth and gums twice a day (After breakfast and before bed).
- Choose a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles.
- Always brush in a circular motion, cleaning a few teeth at a time as well as along the gum line.
- Children will need an adult to help them brush their teeth until about 7 or 8 years of age. It is a good idea for an adult to supervise even after children can physically brush their own teeth.
3. Drinking Tap Water
- Water Should Be the Main Drink and Children Should Drink Plenty of Tap Water Throughout the Day.
- Remember That Shop Bought Bottled Water May Not Have Fluoride in It.
4. Limit Sugary Foods
- Limit foods high in added sugars. Eating foods with high levels of sugar causes tooth decay.
- Try to avoid sugary foods and snacks in your child’s lunchbox.
- Foods high in added sugars include jams, confectionary, biscuits, cakes, sweet muffins, doughnuts, slices, sweet pastries, chocolate and mueslI bars.
5. Your Child Should Have Seen an Oral Health Professional by the Time They Go to School
- Having regular check-ups can help to spot problems early. Early stages of tooth decay can be treated
- For more information please call refresh smiles dental on 07 3488 2079 or vist our website www.refreshsmiles.com.au
