Make water your family drink. Tap water is free and helps protect your teeth. Avoid drinks that contain added sugars (e.g. soft drinks, cordials, juice, sports drinks) as these can cause tooth decay. Check out our tips for getting more water throughout your day.
Choosing healthy foods contributes to good oral health (and helps children's growth and development). Try to limit foods with added sugars, fats and salts. You can use our food calculator to find out how many serves of fruits and vegetables your family needs.
Tooth brushing is an important habit. Brushing morning and night reduces plaque and harmful bacteria in kids' mouths. Use a pea size amount of fluoridated toothpaste and spit out after brushing.
Bonus tip: You don't need to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, a small amount of toothpaste left around the teeth will help protect them.
Regular dental check-ups are important to keep your family's teeth, gums and mouth healthy.
All children (under 18 years old) who are NSW residents are eligible for free public dental services in NSW. Eligible children aged 2-17 years old can also access other benefits through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
For more information about looking after your teeth at all ages and for all communities visit the NSW Health website: Healthy Mouths Healthy Living.
