Information for Families

Helpful tips to promote toothbrushing at home

It is a programme where children, usually aged 3 to 7 years old, brush their teeth daily at the nursery or school they go to. Children brush their own teeth while supervised by a trained member of staff. Each child has their own toothbrush and they are given the right amount of fluoride toothpaste to use. After brushing, they can use a paper towel to wipe off any extra toothpaste from their mouths. Maintaining good oral health is part of the national curriculum for children in nurseries and schools. This programme is free for parents.

Tooth decay is the most common dental problem in children and can cause toothache and problems with eating, sleeping and learning. It also can stop children from doing things they enjoy during their daily life.

Daily toothbrushing programmes in educational settings (nurseries and schools) have been shown to be effective in reducing tooth decay. They help children to brush their teeth at a very young age and be a part of their daily routine. They can also make toothbrushing at home easier too! Research has shown that children who start toothbrushing when they are very young are less likely to develop tooth decay throughout their lives.

Home Toothbrushing

Even if your child has joined a supervised toothbrushing programme at their nursery/school/childminder/, it is still important for your child to brush their teeth at home.

Here are some helpful tips on how to brush your child’s teeth at home:

Brush all surfaces of the teeth and gumline in small circles for about 2 minutes, just before bedtime and at another time during the day that fits with your routine.
Children under 3 years old should use a smear of toothpaste containing no less than 1000ppm fluoride.
Children aged 3 years old and over should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing 1350-1500ppm fluoride for maximum prevention.
Most ‘own brand’ supermarket toothpastes and family toothpastes are suitable and affordable.
Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste. Do NOT rinse with water. Rinsing washes away the fluoride so it can’t do its job.
Parent/carer’s should assist with toothbrushing until their child is at least 7 years old. Sitting your child on your knee or standing behind them and cradling their head while brushing are some of the positions you can use to brush your child’s teeth effectively.
Allow babies to play with a toothbrush from an early age, this will help them to get used to the feel of it in their mouth.

Children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities) may need more opportunities to play and explore toothbrushes and toothpaste. Allow your child to do this to try and find the products your child likes.