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."
Morecambe children's nursery announces plans to close during extreme heat
Lancaster MP responds to Sir Keir Starmer's resignation as Prime Minister
Carnforth High School praised as a "caring community" in Ofsted report
Body of man found in Lancaster park
LISTEN and PHOTOS: Armed Forces weekend will return after massive crowds enjoy biggest ever event
Morecambe MP says Sir Keir Starmer "has made right decision" as Prime Minister resigns
Limited edition artwork will raise vital funds for Lancaster community group
Green Heritage Plaque marks first home of Lancaster University
New home revealed for £20m Morecambe West End regeneration scheme
Wooden nests take flight in Lancaster and Morecambe to stop decline of endangered birds
Veterans salute as Armed Forces Day flag raised at start of celebration weekend in Morecambe
Vandals cause delays to aqueduct sinkhole repairs in Lancaster
Extra Care scheme to open in Lancaster
Three people taken to hospital after road traffic collision in Morecambe
Injured police officer speaks of anger after jailed man freed 16 days after sentence
Morecambe woman to brave the shave to help dogs stay with their families
M6 near Lancaster to close for resurfacing
Full line-up for biggest ever Armed Forces weekend in Morecambe
Lancaster District residents thanked for embracing food waste recycling
More gridlocks in Heysham as roundabout resurfacing works 'over-run'
