Why is it important for children to see a dentist as early as possible?
The first meeting with a child’s dentist is not just about teeth. It is a first step that will set the foundation for healthy dental habits and the dentist-patient relationship for years to come. Every parent wants the best for their child, and a healthy smile is one of the best gifts we can give them. But did you know that you can start shaping that smile in the early years? An early appointment with your child’s dentist doesn’t just give you an idea of the current state of their teeth. It’s an opportunity for your child to have a positive experience of dental check-ups, so they won’t be averse to regular check-ups later on. An early visit to the dentist will help prevent problems later on, recognising risks before they become more serious.
When should I take my child to the dentist?
Your child’s first visit to the dentist should ideally be when their first tooth appears, but no later than their first birthday. After that, regular visits, usually recommended every six months, are necessary to prevent tooth decay and other dental problems. However, if you notice any of the following in your child, be sure to see your child’s dentist:
- If your child complains of a toothache or is visibly uncomfortable eating.
- If your child has an injury to his or her mouth, such as falling and hitting a tooth.
- If you notice discoloration or black spots on your child’s teeth.
- If you notice abnormal wear on your child’s teeth.
- If the baby tooth and remaining teeth are crowded together.
- If your child develops habits, such as finger or pacifier sucking, that may affect the development of his or her teeth.
- If the remaining teeth do not emerge and/or are not in an orderly row.
Why is it important to keep milk teeth?
Milk teeth are not just temporary guests in our children’s mouths. They are much more than that: they play an essential role in a child’s healthy dental development and self-confidence. Many parents think that because milk teeth fall out over time, they are less important than the teeth that remain. However, milk teeth have many important functions. First, they help with chewing and digesting food, which is essential for a child’s growth and development. Secondly, they play an important role in speech development, helping to promote correct pronunciation and confidence in communication. But perhaps their most important role is to provide space for the remaining teeth and to guide them when they emerge. Losing them early can lead to crowding, misalignment and other dental problems later in life.
The pediatric dentists at Trendo Dental believe in the importance of keeping baby teeth. We will make sure that your child’s primary teeth remain strong, and healthy and that the remaining teeth can grow in the best conditions. Taking care of your baby’s teeth is an investment in the future: a lifetime of healthy smiles that will give you confidence and happiness every moment of your child’s life.
What will happen at your child’s dentist first?
The first visit (if it is not an acute problem) to your child’s dentist is usually short and not always an intervention. The primary aim is to reassure the child and establish a positive relationship with the dentist. What to expect at the first appointment:
- Getting to know each other: the dentist takes time to create a friendly atmosphere and to make the child feel comfortable.
- A thorough examination: the dentist will examine the child’s teeth, gums and other parts of the oral cavity to assess general oral hygiene and any developmental problems.
- Parental consultation: a discussion with the parents about the child’s eating habits, oral hygiene routine and any problems they notice.
- Advice: tips and advice for parents on how to establish a child’s oral hygiene routine at home, including how to demonstrate good brushing techniques.
- Next steps: Arranging the next visit, which may include planning any necessary treatment or scheduling a routine check-up.
The first visit is a key step in maintaining your child’s long-term dental health and helps to build their confidence in their dental care.
How much does the treatment cost?
Treatment fees vary, depending on the type of procedure being done. One of the most common treatments is a deciduous tooth filling, which ranges from 18 000 HUF – 28 000 HUF and another common treatment is a deciduous tooth extraction, which is available at Trendo Dental between 6 000 HUF – 12 000 HUF.
Dental specialist
Dr. Gabriella Nagy
Pediatric Dentist, Orthodontist
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is the first time to take your child to the dentist?
It is generally recommended that you take your child to the dentist at the latest at the age of 1 year or when the first tooth appears. This helps prevent dental problems and provides a good basis for establishing dental care habits.
What to do after a child’s dental treatment?
The dentist will give parents detailed instructions on post-treatment care. This may include the use of painkillers, maintenance of oral hygiene habits and any necessary follow-up visits.
Why is early oral care important for children?
Early oral care builds lifelong habits of good oral health and helps prevent tooth decay and other dental problems. Early visits help your child get used to the dental office environment, reducing anxiety and fear during future visits.
When to start using braces in children?
The ideal time to start orthodontic treatment may vary from child to child, depending on when developmental or positioning problems in the teeth are noticed. Generally, orthodontic treatment starts between the ages of 6 and 12, when most remaining teeth have emerged, but intervention may be needed earlier. A thorough diagnostic evaluation, which includes an examination of jaw development and tooth positioning, can help determine the best time to begin treatment.
How can I prepare my child for their first visit to the dentist?
Preparing your child for the first visit to the dentist starts with creating a positive atmosphere. Talk about the visit as an exciting event and explain that the dentist will help him or her to have strong and healthy teeth. They can read children’s books together about dental visits or play a game of ‘playing dentist’.
What toothpaste is recommended for young children?
The use of fluoride toothpaste for young children is recommended. Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay, but it is important to use only a pea-sized amount, especially if the child cannot yet spit out the toothpaste effectively. Always check that the toothpaste is appropriate for the age of the child.
What can I do if my child refuses to brush his/her teeth?
Try to make brushing your teeth playful! Use a colourful toothbrush with a favourite storybook character, or let your child choose their own toothpaste. Introduce a brushing song or game to motivate your child during brushing. Positive reinforcement, such as praise and other small rewards, can also help.
How can I help my child cope with dental anxiety?
To manage dental anxiety, it is important to provide a calm and supportive environment. Speak calmly and reassuringly to your child before a dental visit and try to explain the process in a way that is appropriate to your child’s age and interests. At Trendo Dental, our dental practice is staffed by child-friendly dentists who are experienced in dealing with anxious children, and we also have a family-friendly, relaxed atmosphere to help ease the anxiety of young patients, with toys and books to keep them occupied.
What foods should children avoid to keep their teeth healthy?
To keep children’s teeth healthy, it is recommended to avoid foods and drinks high in sugar, such as sugary drinks, and sweets, especially sticky sweets, which tend to stick to teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Also, foods that are too hard, such as hard candies or ice, should be avoided because they can damage teeth or braces. Instead, fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low-sugar dairy products should be preferred, which are not only nutritious but also help maintain oral health.