Preventive care for children
Preventing decay before it starts is much easier and more comfortable for children than treatment. After the examination, we recommend preventive measures suited to your child.
- Fluoride varnish: a protective varnish painted on the teeth that helps strengthen tooth enamel.
- Fissure sealants: the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are covered with a thin protective material to reduce the risk of decay.
- Oral hygiene advice: age-appropriate brushing and diet tips are discussed with both the child and the family.
Why should baby teeth be treated?
Baby teeth are used for chewing and speaking, and they hold space for the adult teeth coming through underneath. Because decayed baby teeth can lead to pain and infection and can affect the adult teeth, it is usually recommended to save them with a filling or root canal treatment.
If a baby tooth is lost early, the neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap. In this case, a space maintainer can be fitted to keep the space open until the adult tooth comes through.
Tips for dental care at home
Children's dental health largely starts at home. Age-appropriate habits make an important contribution to reducing the risk of decay.
- Brush your child's teeth twice a day from the moment the first tooth appears; your dentist can advise how much toothpaste to use for their age.
- Help your child brush until they can do it well on their own, usually until about 7–8 years of age.
- Limit sugary drinks and snacks between meals.
- Try not to let your baby fall asleep with a bottle of milk or fruit juice.
A calm approach that eases fear
A child's first experiences with the dentist influence how they feel about dental visits in later years. That is why we first explain and show the instruments, and move forward step by step at the child's own pace.
It helps a great deal if you do not describe the dentist at home as a punishment or something to be scared of, and prepare your child for the visit in a calm way. We use certified materials suitable for children, and every step is carried out with care.
Having a parent nearby during the examination reassures most children. Rather than long, tiring sessions, we prefer to split treatment into short, comfortable appointments when needed.
What happens at your child's visit?
- Getting to know usYour child gets to know the practice and the dentist; the first visit is often simply about getting used to it.
- ExaminationThe teeth and gums are checked, and X-rays are taken if needed.
- Preventive care or treatmentDepending on what is needed, fluoride, fissure sealants, fillings or other treatments are planned.
- Regular check-upsThe development of the teeth is followed at check-ups, usually every 6 months.
Frequently asked questions
When should my child first see a dentist?
A first dental check-up is usually recommended after the first tooth appears, and at around 1 year of age at the latest. An early visit helps both to prevent decay and to get the child used to the dentist.
Should decay in baby teeth be treated?
Yes, in most cases it is recommended that decayed baby teeth are treated. Untreated decay can cause pain and infection and can affect the adult tooth coming through underneath.
At what age are fissure sealants applied?
Fissure sealants are usually applied after the adult back teeth have come through, at around 6–7 and 11–13 years of age. Suitability is decided after an examination.
How should I approach a child who is afraid of the dentist?
The most important step is to describe the visit beforehand in a calm and positive way, without frightening words such as needle or pain. At the practice, too, procedures are explained and shown, and we move at the child's own pace.
