Establishing good dental habits in childhood has lifelong benefits. Children who receive regular dental care from an early age are significantly less likely to develop dental anxiety and more likely to maintain good oral health into adulthood. Here is Dr. Gadde's guide to children's dental health.
When Should Children First See a Dentist?
Children should see a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears - typically around 6 months - or by their first birthday at the latest. Early visits are short, reassuring, and focused on familiarising the child with the dental environment rather than treatment. These early experiences shape a child's relationship with dental care for life.
🧒 Early dental visits prevent dental anxiety. Children who attend regularly from a young age are far less likely to develop dental phobia as adults. Make the first visit positive and unhurried.
Baby Teeth Matter
A common misconception is that baby teeth do not matter because they fall out anyway. Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth. Premature loss due to decay causes adjacent teeth to drift, which can significantly complicate the adult dentition. Decay in baby teeth is also painful and can affect a child's eating, speech, and concentration. Baby teeth deserve the same care as adult teeth.
Brushing Children's Teeth
Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a smear of fluoride toothpaste for children under 3, and a pea-sized amount for children aged 3 - 6. Use a small, soft-bristled brush. Children need help brushing until around age 7 - 8 - most lack the manual dexterity to brush effectively on their own until then. Brush twice daily - last thing at night is the most important.
Fluoride and Diet
Fluoride toothpaste (children's formula) is essential - it strengthens enamel and dramatically reduces cavity risk. Limit sugary snacks and drinks to mealtimes. Avoid fruit juice and sugary drinks in bottles or sippy cups - prolonged contact with sugary liquid causes severe decay of front teeth (nursing caries). Water and milk are the best drinks for dental health.
Fissure Sealants
Fissure sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the biting surfaces of back teeth, sealing the deep grooves where decay most commonly starts. They are quick, painless, and highly effective at preventing cavities. We recommend fissure sealants for permanent molars as soon as they erupt (around age 6 and 12).
How Often Should Children Have Check-Ups?
Every 6 months is recommended for most children - more frequently if there is active decay or a high cavity risk. Regular check-ups allow Dr. Gadde to monitor the development of both the baby and adult dentition, identify any bite problems early, and apply preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish.
We welcome children at Accord Dental Practice in Camberley and aim to make every visit positive. Book a child's examination in Camberley.