Quick answer: most dental guidance suggests a first check-up when the first tooth appears or by around the first birthday. If your preschooler has not been yet, now is a good time. Help them brush twice a day, keep sugary drinks and snacks limited, and prepare them with play and books so the first visit is a calm routine check rather than an emergency.
Plenty of children have their first dental visit only when something already hurts. That is understandable, since baby teeth can feel temporary and toddlers are not famous for their patience in chairs.
But a first visit because of a toothache is a much harder introduction than a routine one. It links the dentist with pain, and that link can last a long time.
Why baby teeth matter
Baby teeth fall out, but most of them are around for years, and they do real work.
- Eating. Chewing properly supports a varied diet.
- Speech. Teeth help children form many sounds clearly.
- Space. Baby teeth hold the space for adult teeth coming in behind them.
- Comfort. Tooth decay is common in young children and can be painful, disrupting sleep, eating and concentration.
Decay in baby teeth is also largely preventable, which is the best reason of all to start early.
When to go
Many dentists recommend a first visit when the first tooth comes through, or by about the first birthday. If you have missed that window, there is no need to feel guilty. Simply book one now.
Early visits are usually short and gentle. They are more about checking development, giving advice and letting your child get used to the setting than about treatment.
Brushing at home
Twice a day. Morning and before bed are the most important times.
Use fluoride toothpaste in the right amount. A common guideline is a smear for children under three and a pea-sized amount from about three to six. Ask your dentist what suits your child.
Spit, do not rinse. Leaving a little toothpaste on the teeth helps the fluoride work.
Help them. Young children do not have the dexterity to brush thoroughly. Many dentists suggest parents help or check brushing until around seven or eight. Let them have a go, then take a turn.
Make it routine. Same time, same place, same song. Brushing in front of a mirror together helps.
Food and drink
- Water is the best drink between meals.
- Limit sugary drinks and juice, even ones marketed for children.
- Avoid constant snacking. Frequent sugar through the day is harder on teeth than occasional treats with a meal.
- No bottles of milk or juice in bed. Liquid pooling around teeth overnight is a common cause of decay in toddlers.
- Watch sticky sweets. Dried fruit and sweets that cling to teeth are best kept for mealtimes.
Preparing your child
Play dentist. Take turns being the dentist with a toothbrush and a torch. Count each other's teeth. Let your child check a soft toy's teeth too.
Read books about going to the dentist. They make the room, the chair and the equipment familiar.
Use neutral words. Avoid "it won't hurt" and "don't be scared", since both put the idea of pain and fear into their heads. "The dentist will count your teeth and check they are healthy" is enough.
Keep your own nerves private. Many adults find the dentist stressful. Children pick this up instantly, so save those stories for another audience.
Choose the time carefully. Book when your child is usually rested and fed, rather than near naptime.
Bring comfort. A favourite toy can sit in the chair too.
What usually happens
Details vary, but a first visit often includes a look at the teeth and gums, counting teeth, checking for early signs of decay and advice about brushing and diet. With very young children, the dentist may examine them while they sit on your lap. Some dentists also apply a fluoride varnish.
If your child will not open their mouth, that is common and usually fine. A good dentist will go at the child's pace, and the next visit tends to be easier.
Afterwards
Praise the effort, not just the outcome. "You opened your mouth so the dentist could count your teeth." Avoid rewarding a dentist visit with sweets, which rather undoes the message.
Where school fits in
Preschool children love pretending to be doctors and dentists in the home corner, and that play is useful. It turns unfamiliar experiences into something they understand and control. Our teachers also talk with children about looking after their bodies, including their teeth, as part of ordinary daily routines around eating and washing.
When to seek advice
This article is general guidance, and your dentist is the best source of advice about your child's teeth. See a dentist promptly if you notice white or brown spots, holes or discolouration, if your child has toothache, swelling of the gums or face, or a broken or knocked-out tooth after a fall. If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not try to put it back in; see a dentist. For any concern about general health, speak to your doctor.
Shaws Preschool has cared for children across the East Coast and Serangoon since 1989, with healthy routines built into every day. Come and see how we run a morning: book a tour. For any concern about your child's teeth, please speak to your dentist.
