Oral health

Here to help

Here you will find practical guidance, tips, and resources to help you look after children’s teeth from the very first tooth.

There are also useful materials for professionals and early years settings wanting to promote good oral health in their communities.

Together, let’s improve children’s oral hygiene habits, reduce tooth decay, and support a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.

For parents and carers

Once your baby’s first milk tooth breaks through, it’s time to start focusing on good dental hygiene. Healthy teeth help children eat, speak, and smile confidently, and milk teeth also guide the correct alignment of future adult teeth.

Developing a daily brushing routine and limiting sugary foods and drinks can help prevent tooth decay and other problems later on. For further information, read the full guidance from the NHS Start for Life page.


When to start brushing your child’s teeth

Babies and toddlers up to 3 years

  • Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.
  • Brush at bedtime and on one other occasion each day.
  • Use a smear of toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) with at least 1,000 ppm fluoride.
  • Don’t worry if you can’t brush much at first—getting them used to brushing is the key.

Children aged 3 to 6 years

  • Help them brush last thing at night and on one other occasion until they are at least 7.
  • Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing at least 1,000 ppm fluoride.

Top tips

  • Make brushing twice a day part of the daily routine.
  • Encourage children to spit out toothpaste rather than rinsing, so the fluoride can protect their teeth.
  • Replace toothbrushes every three months or sooner.
  • Avoid letting children lick or eat toothpaste directly from the tube.

Food and drink for healthy teeth

  • Keep sugary food and drinks to mealtimes: Frequent snacking on sugary treats can lead to tooth decay.
  • Fizzy or sugary drinks: These can harm teeth—water or unflavoured milk are healthier choices.
    Transition Away from Bottles by 1 Year: An open or free-flow cup (without a valve) helps protect developing teeth.
  • Avoid adding sugar: Do not add sugar to food or drinks for babies and toddlers.
    For more tips on healthier meals and drinks for children, visit: Food facts – Healthier Families – NHS

When should I take my child to a dentist?

  • Register them early: Taking your child along to your own dental appointments helps them get used to the surroundings.
  • You don't need to pay: NHS Dental Care is free for under 18s (or under 19s in full-time education), and for those who are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months.
  • Worried About Tooth Decay? Book an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible.

Where do I find a dentist?

Urgent dental help

The Emergency Dental Service offers out-of-hours treatment and support for children in West Sussex who require urgent dental care. This service can help relieve pain and manage dental issues until your child can be seen by their regular high street dentist. 

The team includes experienced dentists, nurses, and reception staff who are there to help. They can provide: 

  • Urgent assessment and diagnosis, including X-rays if needed
  • Advice on treatment options and preventative care
  • Prescriptions to manage pain or infection
  • Limited treatment to relieve discomfort
  • Simple extractions, if necessary 

This service is for emergency dental needs only and does not replace regular check-ups or routine care. 

For professionals and early years settings

Join us in promoting healthier smiles

By working together—parents, carers, professionals, and communities—we can ensure every child in West Sussex has the best start in life. Check back for updated resources, campaign news, and more advice on helping children maintain bright, healthy smiles.

Promoting oral health

If you are working with children or supporting families, these resources will help you share consistent oral health messages:

Professional training and resources

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