Dental services for babies

In 2016/2017 over 2000 children aged under 8 in South Australia were hospitalised for dental treatment. This happens because parents are not sure how to care for their children’s teeth!

Dental care is free for all children from birth to five years old at School Dental Service Clinics

For more information on eligibility please visit our who can attend SA Dental Services page

Here’s some tips to keep your babies' teeth healthy

  1. Dental care is free for all children from birth to 5 years at School Dental Service Clinics. Visit the dental clinics page to find your local school
  2. First dental visit is recommended at around 12 – 18 months
  3. Breast milk is best for babies and is not associated with an increased risk of tooth decay
  4. If you are bottle feeding, don’t put your baby to bed with a bottle. Putting baby to bed with a bottle is the main cause of tooth decay in young children                                                      
  5. Babies should give up the bottle at 1 year and at 6 months your child can use a cup
  6. Cooled, boiled tap water from 6 months to 12 months
  7. As soon as teeth are present, start cleaning with a clean damp cloth or small soft toothbrush
  8. Children will need your help every day to brush their teeth until they are around 8 years old
  9. No toothpaste until baby is 18 months old
  10. Lift your child’s top lip once a month to look for early signs of tooth decay. White chalky lines on the teeth near the gumline can be the beginning of tooth decay

For more information or to make an appointment see our School Dental Service clinics page.