• In the early months, most babies' teeth haven’t yet appeared. After feeding, gently wipe their gums with a clean, soft, damp cloth.
• Around 6–12 months, teeth begin to erupt, usually starting with the lower front teeth.
• Begin brushing with a soft, baby-sized toothbrush and no toothpaste.
• Plan their first dental visit by age 1, or when their first tooth comes through.

• More teeth will begin to come through (this is the teething stage). It’s common for children to dribble more and feel irritated.
• Clean gently twice a day using a children’s soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle and limit sugary snacks and drinks to help prevent baby tooth decay.

• Use a small pea-sized amount of low-fluoride, age-appropriate toothpaste from 18 months. (Remember to spit the toothpaste out, and don’t rinse out with water)
• By age 3, your child will typically have all 20 baby teeth.
• Encourage your child to brush, with your supervision. This helps develop their motor skills and lifelong oral health habits.
• Start introducing flossing and visit the dental clinic regularly.
• Try to discourage thumb sucking and dummy use, as they can cause the teeth to move, which may lead to an open bite. 

• Around age 6, the first adult teeth (often the “6-year-old molars” at the back and lower front incisors) will begin to erupt sometimes at an angle, so keep an eye on their position.
• From ages 9–13, the canines (the “eye teeth”) and premolars come through at varying stages. It’s a good time to check for any early signs of orthodontic issues.

• This is a time of rapid change, as children become more independent, busier with school, social life, work, and planning for the future.
• Unfortunately, good oral health habits can sometimes slip. During adolescence, we often see an increase in decay, acid wear, and missed dental visits.
• Reinforce the importance of brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups as these are habits that protect teeth well into adulthood.

• Colour changes or white/brown spots on teeth
• Visible holes or cavities
• Puffy, red, or bleeding gums
• Ongoing toothaches, sensitivity or difficulty eating
• Teeth erupting late or at odd angles

Setting healthy norms early on helps set a strong tone for development and prevents disease such as caries.

Remember to have regular dental visits from birth to adolescence and into adulthood.

Let’s keep those Smilestones bright and strong - from baby teeth to braces and beyond!