Kids/ Paediatric Dentistry
When is the best time to take my child to the dentist?
Children should visit the dentist as early as possible. They should then be taken regularly as this will let them get used to the noises, smells and surroundings and prepare them for future visits.
First Visit to the dentist
Best thumb rule is to bring your child for their first visit to the dentist is their first birthday. This will help introduce good oral health and hygiene habits. Also, early diagnosis can be made for any oral disease, tooth defects (developmental) or unusual shaped teeth. Every child should visit their dentist twice in a year for regular check-ups.
Introduction of good habits
Child gets his/her first teeth at six months of age, until then you should clean their gums with a soft cloth. On appearance of baby’s first ‘milk’ teeth, you should start brushing them. Use a soft toothbrush with tap water to clean the teeth. Toothpaste is not recommended until your child is two years old, when they should use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. After breakfast and last thing at night are the ideal cleaning times. Generally, kids under the age of six should be helped with brushing, which should last for two to three minutes.
It is important to supervise your child’s brushing until they are at least seven. Use a small-headed soft toothbrush in small circular movements and concentrate only on one section at a time. Don’t forget to brush gently behind the teeth and onto the gums. Make tooth brushing a routine; preferably in the morning, and last thing before your child goes to bed.
What sort of brush should children use?
Use a small-headed toothbrush with soft, nylon bristles.
