Morecambe families with young children are being urged to begin brushing their teeth with a fluoride toothpaste, twice a day, from as early as possible as part of a new campaign.
Lancashire County Council Public Health's new 'Let's Get Lancashire Brushing' campaign is focussing on under-twos living in Morecambe, as well as in Preston, Burnley, Pendle and Hyndburn.
Featuring its 'healthy heroes,' the campaign aims to share 'top tips' for helping families to look after their child's teeth.
These include:
It's never too early for parents to start brushing your child's teeth. They can even begin brushing their gums before their first tooth has appeared as it is a helpful way to care for a child's teeth and gums and continue this as they grow up
Brush toddlers' teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time with a fluoride toothpaste
From the age of 12 months, make the switch from a bottle to give drinks in an open or free-flow lidded cup
Plain, non-sweetened milk (not flavoured or milkshakes) or plain, still water is safe to drink in-between meals
If children enjoy fruit juices and/or dried fruit, they should have them at mealtimes only as they have lots of natural sugars and are acidic, which are bad for teeth
At night-time, after your child has brushed their teeth, only let them have water to drink as milk has natural sugar in it too
County Councillor Michael Green, cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing said: "Let's Get Lancashire Brushing is a vital campaign, as taking care of your children's teeth is essential for them to eat, drink, smile, talk, sing - and even shout, as well as protecting them from tooth decay.
"As part of the campaign, we are providing free toothcare packs. The packs have a toothbrush and toothpaste, along with a top tips leaflet - everything you need to start your child on their toothbrushing journey.
‘’Ask at your local Family Hub if you would like one or with Lancashire Healthy Young People and Families Service who provide them at their visits."
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