Keeping kids free of cavities 

In the third of Colgate’s family oral healthcare tip series, we look at caring for two to five-year-olds. It is a sad fact that almost half of all New Zealand kids have cavities before they reach the age of five.  

As our children’s teeth develop, we need to be extra diligent with how we take care of their teeth and gums and with what we let them eat. Your child will have his or her first set of teeth by now and, as they grow, the roots of these first teeth begin to dissolve – making way for permanent teeth. 

As your youngster reaches out for a chocolate bar at the supermarket, it might seem that the only teeth your child is growing are sweet ones. But stay vigilant! Ideally, you should restrict the amount of sugary foods your child can get his or her teeth into and protect those developing incisors, canines and molars. 

This is especially important between the ages of two and five, as this is the time our children learn to take care of their own teeth. As you’ll be the toothcare ambassador, here are some tips from Colgate to help you teach your under five-year-old good oral healthcare habits: 

• Begin teaching your pre-schooler to brush by gripping the toothbrush and helping to guide it around the mouth.

• Brush at least twice a day with a small amount of toothpaste — after breakfast and before bed.

• Continue helping the child to brush at least until age six.

• Use a Colgate child-sized toothbrush that is easy to grip.

• Increase toothpaste to pea-sized amount as your child learns to spit after brushing.

Remember, good oral health begins in the home. Make the brushing of your children’s teeth fun and get them into the routine of twice daily brushing. That will mean they are more likely to keep good oral health habits throughout their lives. And keeping your child’s chompers in top shape with these simple tips will keep that cute smile bright and healthy!