Baby teeth are important and need proper care. Teeth not only help in chewing food, but also boost a child’s self-esteem, assist in speech development and support proper growth and development of the face, jaws and adult teeth. Regular brushing should be started as soon as the first tooth comes through the mouth at around 6–8 months of age.

For more information about oral health and when/how to enrol your children at a community dental service, see:

• www.kidshealth.org.nz/teeth-preschool-years
• www.health.govt.nz/your-health/healthy-living/teeth-and-gums
• call 0800 TALKTEETH (0800 825 583) for enrolment information.