Dental Care
Babies start to develop their teeth when they are growing in the womb (uterus). The first teeth, also known as milk teeth or deciduous teeth, begin to emerge through the gums at around six months of age. This process is known as teething.
Brushing your baby’s teeth
Your baby’s teeth need to be to be cared for with regular brushing as soon as they develop.
Clean the teeth, gums and tongue thoroughly twice every day using a children’s small-headed, soft/medium textured toothbrush with just a smear of children’s fluoride toothpaste. Children’s toothpaste has lower levels fluoride that adults’ toothpaste - for children aged up to 3 years, it is recommended that you use a toothpaste with at least 1,000 ppm (parts per million) fluoride.
You can find more advice on how to brush your baby’s teeth on NHS Choices
Diet
Avoid giving your baby food and drink that are high in added sugar. Limit sugar intake to mealtimes only.
While most sugars in the diet are contained in processed and manufactured foods and drinks, honey, fresh fruit juice and dried fruit all contain sugars that cause tooth decay. Many medicines also contain sugar, so ask your doctor or pharmacist if sugar-free alternatives are available. If possible, give medicines at mealtimes rather than last thing at night.
Visiting the Dentist
You can take your child to an NHS dentist as soon as they are born, even before they have any teeth. Taking your child with you when you go to the dentist will help them become familiar and comfortable with the surroundings.
When their first teeth start to appear, your dentist can check that their teeth are developing correct and give you guidance about caring for your baby's teeth and easing teething problems. NHS dental treatment for children is free.
If you do not already have an NHS dentist, you can use the search function in our Find a Dentist section to find one local to you.