Baby teeth: all you need to know about your child’s oral health

Baby teeth: In this week’s Q&A, Dr Suzanne O’Connor from our Knocklyon practice in Dublin answers some common queries on how to prepare for a child’s first dental visit

Q: When should I first bring my child to the dentist to have their baby teeth looked at?

A: Ideally before the age of two, and preferably when the first tooth arrives at around six months. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and give you an opportunity to ask questions on brushing, maintenance and diet.

Q: What is the best time to schedule a visit?

A: Try to pick a time of day that suits you both, so that nobody feels too rushed, tired or hungry. For a first visit, it is particularly important to ensure that your child is as relaxed as possible.

Q: How can I prepare my child for a first visit?

A: It can be useful to introduce child-friendly books or songs about brushing teeth and trips to the dentist. Try to also use positive words and phrases such as check-up, counting teeth or looking at the mouth, rather than unfamiliar terms such as extractions or fillings.

Q: When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?

A: It is a good idea to introduce the concept of oral hygiene as soon as the first baby teeth arrive at approximately six months. Try introducing a small brush for your baby to hold at bath time so that they can get used to the idea of brushing.

Q: Should I use toothpaste to brush my baby’s teeth?

A: For 0-2 year olds, brushing with atoothbrush and water is best. From 2-7 years, children should brush twice a day with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Incorporating supervised brushing into your child’s usual morning and evening schedules is key.

Q: What happens at a first dental visit?

A: Depending on the child’s age, they can either sit on a parent’s lap, or else sit on the chair by themselves. The dentist examines the child’s mouth and gums, in order to identify any issues such as decay, crowding problems, or developmental anomalies. If needed, they may take an X-ray. They will then polish the child’s teeth and offer the parent preventative hygiene and dietary advice.

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie