Children's dentistry

What it is

Dental care for children is mostly about prevention and confidence: checking teeth as they develop, giving parents clear advice, dealing early with anything that needs attention, and helping a child become comfortable with visiting a dentist.

Why people ask about it

Parents often ask when a first visit should be, how much toothpaste to use, whether drinks and snacks are affecting their child's teeth, what to do about a tooth that looks discoloured, or how to help a child who is nervous.

What assessment may involve

A dentist looks at how the teeth and gums are developing and how baby and adult teeth are coming through, and talks with the parent or carer about brushing, drinks and snacks. For a young child, much of an early visit may simply be getting used to the chair, the light and the person looking after them.

Common approaches and alternatives

Advice commonly covers brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste in an amount suited to the child's age (a smear for the youngest children, a pea-sized amount from about three), helping or supervising brushing until a child can do it well, and keeping sugary food and drinks to fewer occasions.

Depending on the child's needs, a dentist may discuss preventive measures such as fluoride varnish, or sealants that protect the grooves of the back teeth. UK guidance suggests a first dental visit when the first teeth appear, or before a child's first birthday.

Helping a child feel prepared

Keep explanations simple and positive: the dentist will count and look at their teeth. Avoid words that suggest pain. Reading a picture book about a dental visit, or taking turns to "count teeth" at home, can make the real visit feel familiar. Let the dentist know beforehand if your child is anxious or has particular needs.

Questions to ask a clinician

• How much toothpaste should my child use, and what strength?
• How can I help with brushing at this age?
• Are there drinks or snacks we should change?
• Would fluoride varnish or sealants help my child?
• How can I prepare my child for the visit?