The Wisdom Tooth

S-milestones: A Parent’s Guide to Your Child’s Oral Health Journey

Dental Health Week - reach every S-milestone class=

Dental Health Week celebrates “S-milestones”; the key stages in your child’s oral health journey. From cleaning gums before teeth erupt to supporting independent brushing, each S-milestone helps build lifelong habits for healthy smiles.

Almost half of the Australian population has one or more chronic diseases and yet 70% of people are not aware of the link between their oral health and chronic medical conditions.

👶 Smilestone #1: Birth to First Toot

Oral disease and general health

Even before teeth appear, oral hygiene matters. Milk residue and bacteria can build up on your baby’s gums.

Tips include:

  • Use a clean, soft cloth dampened with warm water
  • Gently wipe gums after feeds
  • Start building a routine early

This gentle care sets the stage for healthy teeth and a positive attitude toward oral hygiene.

🦷 Smilestone #2: First Tooth to 18 Months

oral health and heart disease and diabetes

Once that first tooth erupts (usually around 6 months), it’s time to start brushing and visit the dentist.

Tips include:

  • Brush twice daily with water and a soft baby toothbrush
  • Book your child’s first dental visit when the first tooth appears or by age one
  • Make dental visits fun and stress-free

Early visits help detect issues and build comfort with dental care.

🧒 Smilestone #3: 18 Months to 6 Years

oral disease pregnancy lung issues and mental health

Your child’s smile is growing fast—and so should their oral care routine.

Tips include:

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (pea-sized amount)
  • Floss between teeth that touch
  • Schedule regular dental check-ups every 6–12 months

Make brushing fun with songs, timers, or reward charts to build consistency.

🧼 Smilestone #4: From 6 Years Old

oral health and lung problems and gut issues

As your child matures, their oral care routine should too.

Tips include:

  • Switch to adult fluoride toothpaste
  • Continue regular dental visits
  • Encourage independence while supervising technique

Children may still need help with flossing and brushing thoroughly—especially molars.

🧑 Smilestone #5: From 8 Years

oral health and lung problems and gut issues

Now your child is ready to take the lead!

Tips include:

  • Support independent brushing and flossing
  • Reinforce twice-daily brushing and daily flossing
  • Maintain regular dental visits

Celebrate their independence and keep encouraging good habits. These routines will carry them into adulthood with strong, confident smiles.

Every Smile is Special and Beautiful

Every smilestone is a chance to build lifelong oral health. By following expert-backed advice and making dental care a positive experience, you’re setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles.

To maintain good oral health, we encourage everyone to do the following:

Four key steps for good oral health

  • Brush teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
  • Clean between your teeth every day using floss or interdental brushes.
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet and limit added sugar intake
  • Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and preventative care.
4 steps to good oral health

References

This information was obtained from the ADA Dental Health Week Website


Share this post:


Image Description
By The Wisdom Tooth 4 August 2025

Between causing bouts of discomfort on unwary mouths and hiding in dark corners, the wisdom tooth shares snippets of wisdom from the field of dentistry.

Smile...so the world smiles with you

Smile Hawthorn

About Us

At Smile Hawthorn, we see the beauty in every smile, and we aim to provide the highest levels of care to our patients, so they always smile their biggest and brightest.

Monday
to
Friday
8:30 am
-
5:30 pm
Saturday By Appointment