As a parent, ensuring your child’s overall health and well-being is a top priority, and that includes their oral health. Many parents wonder when they should first take their child to the dentist, especially since baby teeth eventually fall out. However, early dental care is crucial in laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
At 78MPR Dental Practice in Tunbridge Wells, we specialise in paediatric dentistry and are led by Consultant & Specialist Paediatric Dentist, Dr Mohsin Chaudhary. Our team provides expert, child-friendly care designed to make dental visits a positive experience from the very start.
So, when should your child first see a dentist? The short answer: by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Read on to learn why early dental visits matter, how often children should see a dentist, and how to prevent early childhood tooth decay.
Why Early Dental Visits Are Important
Many parents believe that since baby teeth (also called primary teeth) eventually fall out, they don’t need much care. However, this is a common misconception. Baby teeth play a critical role in your child’s development, and neglecting them can lead to long-term oral health issues.
The Importance of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth play a crucial role in a child’s development, acting as placeholders for adult teeth to ensure proper alignment as they grow. They also support speech development, helping children pronounce words correctly, while healthy teeth promote proper chewing, aiding in good nutrition and reducing picky eating habits. Additionally, a healthy smile boosts confidence, allowing children to engage comfortably with others. Losing baby teeth too early due to decay can lead to long-term dental and developmental challenges, highlighting the importance of early dental care.
The earlier children visit a dentist, the more comfortable they become with the process, reducing fear and anxiety about dental care in the future.
How Often Should Children See a Dentist?
Regular dental check-ups are essential in preventing early tooth decay and ensuring proper oral development. It’s recommended that children visit the dentist at least every six months, but some may require more frequent visits depending on their individual needs.
At 78MPR Dental Practice, Dr Mohsin Chaudhary and his team provide comprehensive dental care tailored to each child’s needs. These check-ups allow us to:
- Monitor Tooth Development – Ensuring teeth are growing correctly and spotting potential alignment issues early.
- Identify Early Signs of Decay – Addressing cavities before they worsen and require more extensive treatment.
- Provide Personalised Oral Hygiene Guidance – Teaching parents and children proper brushing and flossing techniques.
- Assess Fluoride Needs – Fluoride is essential in strengthening enamel and preventing cavities. We can recommend the appropriate fluoride levels for your child’s age and diet.
By prioritising regular dental visits, parents can help their children develop lifelong healthy habits while preventing costly and avoidable dental problems.
How to Prevent Early Childhood Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood dental issues, but it is entirely preventable. Studies have shown an increase in early childhood cavities, often due to high sugar consumption and inadequate oral hygiene routines. Here are some essential tips for keeping your child’s teeth healthy:
1. Start Brushing Early
- Begin brushing as soon as your child’s first tooth appears.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants.
- Brush twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime.
2. Use the Right Amount of Fluoride Toothpaste
- For children under three, use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
- For children aged 3–6, use a pea-sized amount.
- Teach your child to spit out excess toothpaste, but avoid rinsing with water, as this reduces fluoride effectiveness.
3. Avoid Prolonged Sugar Exposure
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals.
- Never put a baby to bed with a bottle containing juice or milk, as prolonged exposure can cause “bottle tooth decay”.
- Encourage drinking water instead of sugary drinks.
4. Teach Proper Brushing Techniques
- Once multiple teeth emerge, ensure brushing lasts at least two minutes.
- Supervise brushing until your child develops the coordination to do it independently (usually around age 7 or 8).
- Consider using a fun, child-friendly toothbrush and making brushing time exciting with songs or timers.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups
- Routine visits at 78MPR Dental Practice allow us to monitor your child’s teeth, apply fluoride treatments, and provide early intervention if needed.
- We focus on gentle, stress-free appointments to help children feel at ease.
By following these steps, parents can dramatically reduce the risk of cavities and ensure their child’s long-term dental health.
What Happens at a Child’s First Dental Visit?
At 78MPR Dental Practice, we aim to make every child’s first visit a comfortable and positive experience. Dr Mohsin Chaudhary, our Specialist Paediatric Dentist and Consultant, has extensive experience working with children and ensuring they feel safe and relaxed during their appointment.
What to Expect During the First Visit:
During your child’s visit, we provide a gentle introduction to the dental chair and tools to ensure they feel comfortable, followed by a comprehensive examination of their teeth, gums, and jaw development. Our team discusses brushing habits, diet, and fluoride use, offering personalised tips on thumb-sucking, teething, and oral hygiene. Each child receives a tailored care plan, and for those who feel nervous, we take extra time to build trust and create a positive, stress-free experience.
Why Choose 78MPR Dental Practice for Your Child’s Dental Care?
At 78MPR in Tunbridge Wells, we understand that children’s dental needs are unique, and we are dedicated to providing specialist paediatric dental care in a warm and friendly environment.
Led by Dr Mohsin Chaudhary, a highly experienced Specialist Paediatric Dentist and Consultant, our clinic provides a relaxed, child-friendly environment designed to ease anxiety and build confidence. We use state-of-the-art technology, including 3D digital impressions and low-radiation X-rays, to ensure precise, gentle care. With a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry, we help children develop healthy habits to avoid unnecessary treatments in the future. Plus, our multidisciplinary expertise allows for seamless referrals to specialists when needed, ensuring comprehensive care under one roof.
By prioritising good oral hygiene routines and incorporating regular dental visits, parents can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay in their children, ensuring a healthy and bright smile for years to come.
The best time to take your child to the dentist is as early as possible – ideally by their first birthday. Establishing regular dental visits from a young age sets the foundation for lifelong oral health and helps prevent tooth decay, misalignment, and other dental issues.
At 78MPR Dental Practice, Tunbridge Wells, our team is committed to providing exceptional paediatric dental care, ensuring that every child feels safe, comfortable, and cared for.
Book your child’s first dental visit with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.
