When to book
Dentists advise a first visit when the first tooth appears, or by the first birthday. Come sooner if you notice a white or brown patch on a tooth.
Book a time when your child is usually rested. A morning slot suits most toddlers.
Getting your child ready
Play dentist at home with a toothbrush and a teddy. Let your child count your teeth, then count theirs.
Read a picture book about the dentist. Avoid words like “hurt” or “needle”, even to reassure them.
What the dentist checks
- How the teeth are coming through
- Any early signs of decay
- The gums and the bite
- Habits such as thumb sucking or dummies
Most first visits are short. You get time to ask questions.
Bedtime bottles and juice
Milk or juice sitting on teeth overnight causes decay in toddlers. Finish the bottle before brushing, and offer only water after.
Juice between meals bathes the teeth in sugar. Water is the easy swap, and it also suits a hot Ajman afternoon.
Brushing at home
- Start as soon as the first tooth appears
- Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste for toddlers
- Use a pea-sized amount from about age three
- Brush twice a day, and keep helping until about age seven
Children cannot brush well alone at first. Let them have a go, then finish the job yourself.
Teething
Most babies get their first tooth between six and twelve months. Sore gums, drooling and chewing on everything are common.
A clean, cold teething ring can help. Ask a pharmacist before you use any teething gel.
Fluoride varnish
Your dentist may paint a thin layer of fluoride varnish on your child’s teeth. It is quick and helps protect against decay.
Your dentist will tell you if your child should avoid eating for a short time afterwards.
Dummies and thumb sucking
Many children stop by themselves. A habit that carries on once adult teeth arrive can push the front teeth forward.
Your dentist can check the bite and suggest gentle ways to help your child stop.
Snacks and lunch boxes
Sticky snacks such as dates, crisps and sweets cling to teeth. Offer them with a meal rather than through the day.
Cheese, plain yoghurt, cucumber and apple slices are kinder to teeth. Pack a water bottle for school, especially in the hotter months.
If your child is nervous
Stay calm and keep your words simple, because children pick up on worry. Some children sit on a parent’s lap for the first look.
Praise your child for trying, even if the visit is short.
Questions to bring
Write down anything you have noticed, including grinding at night or a tooth coming in crooked. Bring a list of any medicines your child takes.