In short
- 01Milk teeth timelineThe first tooth erupts around six months, and the first permanent tooth appears around age six.
- 02Fluoride protectionRegular fluoride application strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay.
- 03Calm, child-friendly carePaediatric dentists use a warm, reassuring approach to help children feel at ease.
Paediatric dentistry is the care of children’s oral and dental health from birth through adolescence, with treatment and communication suited to each age group.
Common dental problems in children
- Tooth decay
- Early loss of a milk tooth
- Gum problems
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Tooth decay in children is usually linked to inconsistent oral hygiene, and eating a lot of sugary food increases the risk. Gum problems such as swelling, redness and bleeding also happen in children, usually for the same reason. Teeth grinding typically happens during sleep; a paediatric dentist can treat it to stop it damaging the teeth.
Treatments in paediatric dentistry
Regular fluoride application strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay. Regular check-ups let the dentist catch problems early and help the child get used to visiting the dentist. If decay has reached the nerve, a paediatric root canal treatment may be needed, and a badly decayed tooth may need to be extracted. Dentists carry out extractions as gently as possible.
Introducing a child to the dentist
A child’s first dental visit should generally happen once the milk teeth have erupted, so their oral health can be monitored early and good habits can start forming. Fear of the dentist is common at this age. Paediatric dentists take a warm, reassuring approach, and some clinics use child-friendly touches such as play areas to help.
Building good habits at home
Starting the brushing habit early matters most. A toothbrush the child likes, and a reward system for using it, can help. Limiting sugary and acidic food and drink also reduces the risk of decay.
The role of parents
Parents share responsibility for a child’s oral health alongside the dentist. Avoid habits in front of a child that you don’t want them to copy, since children often model what they see. Early detection and treatment of dental problems supports healthy development, and regular visits to a paediatric dentist help make sure problems are caught early.
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results can vary from person to person.
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Frequently asked questions
When do a child's milk teeth fall out?
The first milk tooth erupts around six months old, and the first permanent tooth erupts around age six. Milk teeth fall out at different times up to around age 10 to 11, and permanent teeth replace them.
Is tooth decay contagious?
Tooth decay can pass from mother to child. Close contact with a parent or carer's mouth may transfer the bacteria that cause cavities.
What happens with an abscessed tooth in a child?
The dentist cleans the abscess as gently as possible. From around age 6, it is usually treated with antibiotics.
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