Taking your child to the dentist is a key aspect of promoting good oral health, and it is recommended that children see a dentist by the age of one, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Here’s a closer look at why these early visits are important, what to expect and how to make the experience positive for both you and your child.
Establishing healthy habits: Early dental visits help establish good oral hygiene practices. Regular check-ups teach young children the importance of caring for their teeth and gums, instilling habits that can last a lifetime.
Monitoring development: Dentists can track your child’s dental development and identify any potential issues, such as tooth decay, misalignment or other oral health problems. Catching these issues early can prevent more serious complications later on.
Parental education: The initial visits are also an opportunity for parents to learn about best practices for their child’s oral health. Dentists can provide guidance on proper brushing techniques, dietary choices and when to introduce fluoride toothpaste.
During your child’s first dental appointment, the dentist will typically conduct a gentle examination. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Initial examination: The dentist will check your child’s teeth and gums for any signs of decay or other issues. For very young children, this might involve a quick examination while they sit on your lap or lie on the dentist’s chair; the main aim is to make your child's first visit to the dentist a very positive experience.
Discussion on oral hygiene: The dentist will talk to you about your child’s oral hygiene routine. This may include advice on when to start brushing, how much toothpaste to use and whether to floss (depending on the number of baby teeth).
Advice on diet: Dentists often discuss dietary habits that can affect oral health, such as limiting sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to cavities.
Fluoride treatments: Depending on your child’s needs, the dentist may recommend fluoride treatments to help protect their teeth from decay.
Questions and concerns: This is a great time for parents to ask questions about their child's dental health, including concerns about teething, thumb-sucking or other habits.
Prepare your child: Before the visit, talk to your child about what to expect. Use positive language and explain that the dentist is there to help keep their teeth healthy. Consider reading children’s books about visiting the dentist or watching videos designed for kids. We have books for children in our waiting room, so you can show these to them if you have time before their appointment. As little children can get tired as the day progresses, book them in for a morning appointment or a time that best suits their routine to avoid weary or hungry moments!
Choose a friendly and experienced dentist: If possible, opt for a dentist who specialises in treating children. Paediatric dentists often have a friendly and inviting environment that can help ease any anxiety. At Elmsleigh House our general dentists offer years of experience caring for children of all ages; they often look after all the members of a family, seeing children grow into adults and even treating their children! We also run a Little Smiles dental clinic for children who are especially anxious about dental treatment. We can offer inhalation sedation (commonly known as 'gas and air' or 'happy gas') to help children access the dental care they need. Other dentists can refer anxious children to Little Smiles due to our expertise.
Stay calm: Your attitude can significantly affect your child’s experience. Stay calm and positive, showing enthusiasm about the visit. Your reassurance can help alleviate any fears your child may have.
Be supportive during the appointment: As you are with your child during their appointment, it is important you do not project any negative feelings you may have about going to the dentist! Your presence should be comforting, so be prepared to hold their hand or offer words of encouragement.
Celebrate the visit: After the appointment, celebrate the experience! Little children love choosing a sticker at reception to wear with pride. We also give brave children who have come to Little Smiles our Elmsleigh lion to reward them for overcoming their dental anxiety to access treatment. Little rewards create a positive association with dental visits.
After the first visit, it’s typically recommended that children see the dentist every six months, or as advised by their dentist. Regular check-ups help ensure that your child’s teeth and gums stay healthy as they grow.
In conclusion, bringing your child to the dentist by their first birthday helps establish a foundation of good oral health. By preparing for the visit and fostering a positive attitude, you can help ensure that your child’s dental experiences are beneficial and stress-free, promoting a lifetime of healthy habits.
