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11 November 2025

Why is early dental hygiene education important for children?

Why is early dental hygiene education important for children?

Why is early dental hygiene education important for children?

When it comes to raising happy, healthy kids in London or anywhere else - one of the most overlooked yet vital aspects is oral health. Did you know that good dental hygiene starts as soon as your child's first tooth appears?

Why Is Early Dental Hygiene Education Important for Children?

Establishing good habits early helps them avoid costly, painful problems down the line. In the UK, child tooth decay remains alarmingly common. According to recent NHS data, nearly 25% of five-year-olds have experienced some form of tooth decay.

When Should Parents Start Brushing a Baby's Teeth?

The NHS advises starting as soon as the first milk tooth pops through. Here are some age-specific tips:

  • Under 3 years: Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (1000 ppm) and a soft-bristled brush designed for babies.
  • Ages 3–6: Increase the amount of toothpaste slightly (a pea-sized blob).
  • Supervise closely: Kids lack the dexterity to brush effectively until they're about 7 or 8.

Conclusion

Early dental hygiene education is the foundation for lifelong oral health. By starting early, making brushing fun, and collaborating with schools and nurseries, parents can ensure their children grow up with strong, healthy teeth.

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Melissa Nereide

Local Guide

a month ago

Jack is a wonderful hygienist! I suffer from TMJD, and I usually struggle a lot during dental cleanings, but this visit was completely different. He put me at ease right away and was incredibly gentle and attentive. For the first time in a long while, the cleaning didn't hurt much at all, and I felt genuinely cared for throughout the entire appointment.

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Sophia Azzou

a month ago

We recently visited this practice and were fortunate enough to be looked after by Jack, our dental hygienist. I cannot praise him highly enough. His level of professionalism and friendly demeanor were exceptional. He took the time to ensure both my husband and I felt completely comfortable, making the entire appointment stress-free.

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Susan Tracey

2 months ago

My husband and I recently had a dental hygienist appointment here and the whole experience was exceptional. We were seen by Laila who was both friendly, caring and professional. She made us feel at ease and comfortable throughout the procedure and we were very pleased with the results. We could not recommend her more highly to you.

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