Children and young people (6 to 17 years)

Good oral health habits should start early and continue through childhood and adolescence. Healthy teeth and gums support eating, speaking, sleeping, learning and socialising.

Poor oral health can cause pain, infections and affect confidence.

During the teenage years, habits such as frequent sugary drinks, snacking, smoking, vaping or alcohol use can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Many teenagers also do not brush their teeth often enough.

Keeping teeth healthy

Food and drinks

Choose healthy snacks like:

• cheese
• fresh fruit
• vegetable sticks
• yoghurt.

Encourage drinking fluoridated tap water as it helps protect teeth from tooth decay.

• Leave sugary and starchy foods for special occasions only
• Soft drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks can all increase the risk of tooth decay.

Toothbrushing

• Brush teeth twice a day (after breakfast and before bed).
• Use fluoride toothpaste.
• Spit, don’t rinse after brushing, because the small amount of toothpaste left on the teeth helps protect them.
• Parents and carers should help children brush until about 8 years of age.

See also: How to brush

Dental check-ups

Have regular dental check-ups as advised by your dental practitioner​

All NSW children under 18 years can access free dental care at public dental services. Some Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations also offer dental care.

Parents or guardians must sign a Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) Bulk Billing Patient Consent Form. If a child is not eligible for CDBS or has already used their benefit, care is still provided at no cost.

Prevent dental injuries

• Provide a safe home and play environment
• Supervise young children
• Children and young people need to wear a mouthguard during contact sports

If a dental injury occurs, seek dental advice immediately.

Information for young people

Mouthguards

• Dental injuries often happen during contact sport
• Wearing a mouthguard helps protect:
• teeth
• jaw
• ​mouth tissues.

Oral (mouth) piercings

Oral piercings can:

• chip or crack teeth
• cause infection or ulcers
• affect chewing and speaking
• lead to gum problems.

If you choose to have a piercing:

• use plastic or rubber jewellery
• go to a qualified professional.

Smoking, vaping, alcohol and drugs

Avoid smoking, vaping, alcohol and drug use. These can cause:

• dry mouth
• bleeding gums
• tooth grinding
• bad breath
• stained teeth
• tooth loss
• gum disease and tooth decay
• oral cancer.

For support and information about alcohol and drugs, visit Your Room.