Kia ora, talofa lava, kia orana, malo e lelei, faka’alofa lahi atu, bula vinaka, malo ni, halo ola keta, mauri, fakatalofa atu

The 'Baby teeth matter' campaign encourages parents to protect their children’s teeth by ensuring their teeth are brushed twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

Tooth decay is a serious issue. Each year thousands of kiwi kids have teeth removed prematurely – often under anaesthetic. In fact, it’s one of the top reasons why children are hospitalised. Along with the pain and discomfort decay causes, if baby teeth aren’t looked after it can affect adult teeth. And it’s very preventable. Along with a good diet, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is one key way to prevent tooth decay.

This campaign was developed in partnership with the Ministry of Health, who manage the overall oral health programme.

Key messages:

- Baby teeth are important and necessary for the health of permanent teeth.

- Under 5-year-olds need to have their teeth brushed by an adult.

- Brush baby teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to protect their future smile.

For more information see www.letstalkteeth.co.nz