Dental Care Ireland puts children’s dental health first
March 7th, 2019
Recent bad news surrounding children’s dental health highlights the importance of good dental care from an early age. For that reason, Dental Care Ireland practices nationwide will be offering a free first dental visit to all patients under five for the month of March
In January 2019, it emerged that approximately 84,000 children and adolescents were waiting on a public dental assessment or treatment around Ireland. The Irish Dental Association described these figures as “shocking” and said that children on waiting lists could end up in pain with swollen or infected gums and may need antibiotics or even operations to alleviate pain and treat the issues.
In response, the HSE said that up to one million children up to including the age of 15 are eligible for free dental services. But clearly demand is outstripping supply and something needs to be done to address children’s dental health and this enormous waiting list.
Free first dental visit
It is depressing to read figures like these, which very much emphasise how important it is that children see their dentist from the earliest possible age, and regularly thereafter. For that reason, Dental Care Ireland is doing its part for children’s dental health, with practices nationwide offering free first dental visits to all patients under the age of five for the month of March.
If your child visits their dentist at the optimal time (generally when the first tooth appears when they are six months old), then it stands to reason that they will be comfortable and relaxed in what is initially an unfamiliar environment.
Crucially, at your child’s first dental visit you will be given an insight into how you can ensure your child’s dental and oral health stay as good as possible. Given children’s teeth are smaller, thinner and softer than adult teeth, it is important they are seen very early so that your dentist can spot any tell-tale signs of issues that may develop at a later date.
Ensuring a stress-free visit
There are a number of things you can do to ensure that your child’s first dental visit goes as smoothly as possible.
First of all, go at a time that suits both you and your child. This way, you’ll minimise any stress and put your child at ease. It’s important your child is well rested and fed, and also that you aren’t rushing or vexed. Children can pick up on your mood so ensure you leave yourself plenty of time so that both of you are in good form.
Dental practices are very bright and clean, and it’s important your child isn’t rushed in and out of the practice too quickly. You’ll want to give them a bit of time to acclimatise to this new environment.
Checking for tell-tale signs
At Dental Care Ireland, we make sure that parents are present at a child’s first dental visit, so that you can hear about what the initial examination consists of as well as pick up some tips for maintaining dental health at home. The dental examination usually involves counting the child’s teeth to see how many have appeared so far.
Dentists are also looking for a growth pattern to establish a foundation for what’s present and seeing if there are any tell-tale signs of issues that they can advise on to prevent them becoming a problem.
Overall, the visit should be good fun and enjoyable for the child, so that next time they visit, they aren’t apprehensive.
What take-home messages do you need?
After this first dental visit, you will gain plenty of insights into how your child should brush their teeth, general dental and oral health tips and dietary insights so the whole family can minimise sugary food and drink intake.
If you follow these simple tips, you will greatly increase the chances of both a successful first dental visit for your child, as well as subsequent visits to come. Make sure you always put your children’s dental health first.
Dental Care Ireland prioritises children’s dental health, and is offering free first dental visits to all patients under the age of five for the month of March 2019. If you’re looking to book an appointment in one of our practices around the country, we can offer you the help and care that you need. Dental Care Ireland practices around the country open late, on weekends and during lunchtime, so make sure you consult our opening hours for more information
