Taking care of children’s teeth is about more than just keeping cavities away. Good dental care helps children develop confidence, eat comfortably, and set strong habits that last a lifetime. Dentistry for children (often called paediatric dentistry) focuses on prevention, education, and gentle treatment tailored to a child’s age and personality. Find out more here.

Why Early Dental Care Matters

• Healthy growth and development: Children’s teeth guide adult teeth into the right place. Losing baby teeth too early from decay can affect speech and bite alignment.
• Preventing dental fear: Positive early experiences with the dentist reduce anxiety later in life.
• Building lifelong habits: Teaching children to brush, floss, and eat well creates a foundation for healthy adult smiles.

First Dental Visit

Dentists recommend that children have their first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth appearing. The first appointment is usually short and focuses on:

• Checking the teeth and gums.
• Advising parents about diet, teething, and brushing.
• Helping the child get used to the dental chair in a fun, stress-free way.

Common Treatments in Children’s Dentistry

• Fluoride applications: Strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.
• Fissure sealants: A protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
• Gentle fillings: Used if decay is detected, with materials safe for growing teeth.
• Orthodontic assessments: Early checks for bite and alignment issues.

Helping Children Care for Their Teeth at Home

Parents play a huge role in supporting oral health. Key tips include:

• Brushing twice daily: Use a soft toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste (a smear for under-3s).
• Healthy snacking: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, encourage fruit, vegetables, and water.
• Routine: Make brushing fun with music, apps, or family brushing time.

Overcoming Dental Anxiety

It’s natural for some children to feel nervous about the dentist. Techniques such as “tell-show-do” (explaining, demonstrating, and then doing) and using child-friendly language help build trust. Parents can also help by staying positive and avoiding words like “pain” or “injection.”

The Bigger Picture

Children’s dentistry is about more than treatment—it’s about education, prevention, and building confidence. When children grow up understanding the value of oral health, they are more likely to enjoy a lifetime of strong, healthy smiles.