Many children suffer from poor dental health e.g.
tooth decay (dental caries), despite oral disease being largely preventable. Because tooth decay in the
baby teeth can mean that a child will develop tooth decay in the adult (permanent) teeth, it is important that your child adopts good oral hygiene habits early in life.
This page provides advice and resources for maintaining good oral health in children.
In this section:
Tooth development and eruption of permanent (adult) teeth
Teething usually occurs between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. Children usually replace their baby teeth at around 6 years of age. Back baby teeth are replaced at 10-12 years of age. If a child’s baby teeth erupted late, the adult teeth will probably erupt late as well.
View eruption chart for baby teeth
Thumb sucking
Most children should stop between 2 and 4 years of age. Your child’s teeth and the shape of their mouth may be affected if sucking persists after the eruption of adult teeth (6 - 13 years). This can affect your child’s appearance and ability to bite and speak properly. (see the Australian Society of Orthodontics 
)
Seek professional advice on how to assist your child to stop sucking their thumb or fingers.
Further reading and advice on thumb and finger sucking - (From TEETH: Oral Health Information for Maternal and Child Health Nurses manual)
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Tooth decay (dental caries)
Tooth decay is especially common in children, but anyone who has teeth can get tooth decay (dental caries), including infants and older adults.
When your child consumes food and drinks that are sugary or starchy (high in carbohydrates), the bacteria that naturally live in their mouth and in plaque, break down the carbohydrates into acids. These acids attack and dissolve the outer surface of the tooth (enamel). This process is known as demineralisation.
The first sign of demineralisation is a chalky white spot. At this stage, the decay process can be reversed. If you suspect your child has the start of tooth decay, make an appointment to see your dentist or other oral health professional.
Identifying tooth decay (dental caries) - (From TEETH: Oral Health Information for Maternal and Child Health Nurses manual)
More information on cavities/tooth decay and the symptoms (Mayo Clinic website)
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Teeth grinding in children
In most cases, children who grind their teeth don’t cause any damage to their teeth. In only a few very extreme cases, where the grinding is very regular, is it likely that your child could cause damage to teeth. If you’re concerned, talk to an oral health professional.
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Teeth straightening and orthodontics
Some children may require orthodontic treatment such as braces or plates to correct teeth and jaw alignment problems such as crooked or crowded teeth. It can be more difficult to keep teeth and gums healthy with all the wires and brackets needed to move the teeth.
It is vital that children clean their braces and plate every time they brush their teeth. Read about orthodontic treatment >>
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Healthy mouth and teeth information cards