Ideally, it is best to take your child to the dentist when he/she is between 12 to 18 months of age. Routine exposure to the dentist at a young age is beneficial, as the dentist can expose your child to simple procedures such as examination using a mouth mirror and teeth cleaning that are painless. Any problems your child may have can also be picked up early so that treatments are generally much less complicated and pain free. With regular visits and healthy teeth your child will gradually learn that going to the dentist is not a fear provoking experience. Older children can accompany you when you visit your dentist, so you can be a role model for good behaviors.
Children FIRST dental visit
Preparing your little ones for their dental
Prior to the dental appointment, parents should ask to speak to the dentist so they can be advised on how to prepare their child appropriately for the appointment. Dental fear can often be prevented if adults choose the right words in preparing their kids. Please never forget that children can sense our fear and anxiety, making our little patients more nervous for their appointments. Make the visit casual and fun!
How often should your child see the dentist?
Preventive treatment for children is very important. It is strongly recommended that children visit the dentist every 6 months for check up and tooth cleaning. Taking your child to the dentist regularly allows the dentist to prevent and anticipate problems and can save time, money and your child’s teeth. Most importantly it saves your child from a painful experience.
Fissure sealant and Fluoride application
Fluoride application prevents dental caries by making the teeth more resistant to acid-attack, the main reason for dental caries.
Fissure sealants are smooth protective barriers placed to cover all the grooves and dips on the surface of the tooth. These grooves and dips on the surface are prone to dental decay as they are not easily cleansable by tooth brushing. Sealants are often applied as soon as the first permanent molar teeth starts to come through, usually between 6 to 7 years old.
