Looking after your child's teeth

It is important to keep teeth and gums healthy. This helps prevent problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Tooth decay in children can cause pain, trouble sleeping, problems with chewing and even speech difficulties. Sometimes children may need to go to hospital to have teeth taken out or to treat infections.

Top tips for healthy teeth

Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste (1450ppm) — once before bed and once during the day.

• Spit out the toothpaste instead of rinsing, so the fluoride stays on your teeth and keeps them strong.
• Avoid too many sugary foods and drinks. If you do have them, try to have them with meals instead of as snacks.
• Visit the dentist regularly, as often as they recommend. This is usually every 6 or 12 months, but your dentist will tell you what’s best.

Where can I find more information?

The best places to find more information about healthy teeth are the websites:

• NHS - Healthy teeth and gums
• Oral Health Foundation - Children's teeth
• Derbyshire County Council - Oral health

What services are available in Derby?

• Your local dentist
• Community dental services - Derbyshire clinics (by referral only) 
• Royal Derby Hospital – your child may be referred here for tooth extractions or orthodontics (braces)