What is the correct technique for brushing, how much fluoride should the toothpaste contain - and other questions, answered by Annette Rawstrone

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Starting a regular teeth-cleaning routine from when your baby’s first milk tooth breaks through is essential for good dental health.

It’s vital to care for your child’s milk teeth, even though they’ll eventually fall out, because they play an important role in helping your child to bite and chew food and to speak clearly.

It also sets the foundation for your child taking care of their teeth into adulthood.

WHEN TO BRUSH

toothbrush

Get into a routine of brushing your child’s teeth for two to three minutes (about the length of a song) twice a day. Always do this before bedtime and then perhaps when they get up or after breakfast. It may be difficult to clean your baby’s teeth at first but they should soon become used to the routine.

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