Q – When should I bring my child for their first dental check-up?

The most asked question on every parents lips…. when should they start going?

A survey of children’s dental health in Ireland found nearly half of all children under age five have decay in their baby teeth. According to the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the earlier a child starts visiting the dentist for preventive visits the better the chance of avoiding dental problems.

Bring your child to see the dentist before his/her first birthday and discuss introducing the use of fluoride toothpaste and a dental hygiene routine. It is good to get them used to the idea of a dentist from an early age. Dentists will also be able to advise you on how best to look after your young children’s baby teeth. They will also be able to spot the beginnings of any problems that may occur later. It is crucial that children should feel comfortable and relaxed so that subsequent visits are also stress-free.

Establish a regular yearly visit from there on, or more often if your dentist recommends because of higher risk factors. As your child gets older, find out when school dental screenings take place in your area and ask the school dentist about fissure sealants for your child. 

It is important for your child to get a good start in life. In order to learn new things, your child needs to feel healthy and strong. Preventing tooth decay will help your child’s progress and promote good overall health.

0 – 6 months

• Clean gums and teeth with warm water and gauze.

6 months – 2 years

• Clean teeth and gums with a soft children’s brush and warm water. Their first tooth comes around 6 months old.
• Introduce your child to a dentist just before their first birthday. The earlier a child starts visiting the dentist for preventive visits the better the chance of avoiding dental problems. Introduce a fluoride toothpaste from two years old as recommended by your dentist.

2 years – 7 years

• Use a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste (1450ppm) on their toothbrush.
• Use a flavourless toothpaste or a flavour that suits your child.
• Spit out, do not rinse out and do not let them swallow their toothpaste.
• Bring your child to the dentist once a year.

Dental Insurance from the Dental Experts

All of our plans are based on our Healthy Smiles approach, which promotes regular and sustained preventive care by providing 100% cover for examinations, cleanings, and x-rays.

Our Level 2 Healthy Smiles plans have additional cover for children with 70% cover for sealants, space maintainers, and stainless steel crowns.

To find out more, call 094 937 8608 or visit www.decaredental.ie.