Many parents wonder when they should schedule their child’s first dental appointment. The answer might surprise you – it’s much earlier than most people think! So, when should your child have their first dental appointment?
At The Briars Dental Centre, we recommend that children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing.
This may seem remarkably early, but early visits set the foundation for lifelong oral health. Prevention truly is better than cure in children’s dentistry.
Baby teeth are susceptible to decay as soon as they emerge. Early visits allow us to identify any signs of decay or developmental issues early and provide guidance on effective cleaning techniques. We’ll advise on appropriate fluoride use for your child’s specific needs and discuss dietary habits that promote healthy teeth and gums.
Children who start dental visits early become familiar with the dental environment in a non-threatening way. Routine check-ups become a normal part of their healthcare regimen, and they’re less likely to develop dental anxiety later in life. We establish trust through positive, age-appropriate interactions from the beginning.
These early visits help parents too. Our team will demonstrate effective tooth-cleaning techniques, answer questions about teething, dummy use, and thumb-sucking. We provide tailored advice about reducing sugar intake and managing teething discomfort. We’ll guide you through all development stages of your child’s teeth.
At The Briars Dental Centre, we’ve designed initial visits to be gentle, positive experiences. We welcome you both warmly and introduce ourselves in a friendly manner. For very young children, the examination often takes place with the child sitting on a parent’s lap for security and comfort.
We make the experience fun and engaging, using age-appropriate language and techniques. The actual examination is brief and gentle – just enough to assess development and oral health. We spend time discussing home care routines, answering questions, and providing personalised advice.
Regular dental visits from an early age help establish oral health as a priority. Clean your baby’s gums before teeth appear – this can be with a specific paediatric gum cleaner, or a clean damp cloth. Start brushing with the first tooth using a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate toothbrush.
Turn tooth-brushing into a positive routine with songs or stories. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup containing anything other than water. Introduce healthy eating patterns early and limit sugary foods and drinks.
So, when should your child have their first dental appointment? We encourage you to schedule your child’s first dental appointment by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears – whichever comes first.
Starting early gives your child the gift of positive dental experiences and lays the groundwork for excellent oral health throughout their life.
To book your child’s first dental visit at The Briars Dental Centre, please contact our friendly reception team or book online through our website. Your child’s smile means everything to us, and our professional team is here to help them achieve their dental goals from the very beginning of their journey.
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