As adults we all know the importance of our oral health, we are taught from a very young age to brush our teeth twice a day or after every meal and this is the key, when we are taught at a very young age we are much more likely to continue good habits into adulthood. This is why getting your child accustomed to a routine at such an early age of brushing their teeth is so important in setting the foundations for your oral health later on in life.
At about the age of 6 months, your child will begin to get there first set of teeth these teeth are known as baby teeth, then when your child reaches the age of 5 or 6 these baby teeth will start to fall out and eventually be replaced with a second set of teeth, this second set of teeth are permanent.
Paediatric Dentistry (children’s dentistry) are specialist dentist dedicated to your child’s oral health from infancy to adolescence and onto their teen. Dentists recommend your child should visit the dentist within first 6 months of your child’s first tooth appearing and certainly by the time of your child’s first birthday.
This early examination is important in building up a relationship with the dentist and to check for the early signs of oral related problems, also these early observations are essential to maintain your child’s overall oral health, enforce good habits and treat any minor defects that could cause problems later in life. Paediatric dentists can also advise parents on preventive measures to ensure your child’s oral health at home, such as correct brushing techniques, information on thumb finger and dummy habits and offer advice on avoiding injuries to the child’s mouth during their growth and development.
Fortunately, many dentists now work closely with local nurseries, schools and neighbourhoods, whereas a specialist paediatric dental nurse will often visit schools or nurseries every 6 months or so to quickly examine the pupil’s oral health. This close relationship with the dentist and school ensures your child receives the best start for a lifelong healthy mouth, good communication also help with dental phobia, that both children and adults can suffer from.