Dental checks for young children

All children should have a basic mouth check by the time they turn two. Don’t wait for a problem to appear — regular dental check-ups are an important part of keeping children healthy.

First mouth check by age two#

This first check might be done by an oral health professional, such as a dentist, dental therapist or dental hygienist. It might also be done by another health professional, such as a child health nurse, doctor or practice nurse. These professionals will refer your child to an oral health professional if necessary.

Why dental checks matter#

Regular dental check-ups are important for children because:

• Your oral health professional can help your child avoid decay with treatments such as fluoride application and dental sealants.
• The early signs of tooth decay and other problems can easily be missed by families.
• Small problems can be treated before they become larger ones.
• Children get to know the dental staff and become familiar with visiting the dentist.
• They give you a chance to ask questions or talk about any concerns.

Everyone has different oral health needs and risk levels, which determine how often they should have a check-up. Talk with your oral health professional about how often your child needs one.

Tips for positive dental visits#

Here are some ways to help make your child’s visit a positive one:

• Prepare your child for what to expect by reading story books about visiting the dentist or by “playing dentist” at home.
• Take your child along when you have your own check-up so they can see what happens.
• Talk about dental visits as a normal part of their routine that helps keep them healthy, and highlight the new, interesting and fun parts of going to the clinic.
• Make appointments early in the day so your child is not tired, and arrive a little early so they can get used to the surroundings.
• During the visit, let the oral health professional have your child’s full attention — they are trained to be gentle and to help your child feel comfortable.
• Combine the visit with a fun activity afterwards, such as a trip to the park or having a friend over to play.
• Only say positive things about your own dental experiences in front of children.

Help with the cost of dental care#

In many places, government or community programs help cover some or all of the cost of basic dental treatment for eligible children. Eligibility rules vary, so check what is available where you live, and ask your oral health professional about public dental services and community dental clinics.

Keeping children’s teeth healthy#

You can help keep your child’s teeth healthy by:

• Cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear (usually around 6 months of age), using a soft cloth or a soft toothbrush and water.
• Using toothpaste from around 18 months of age — a pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste. Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste after brushing, but not to rinse.
• Brushing twice a day — in the morning after breakfast and before bed at night. Help your child brush until they are about seven or eight years old to make sure every surface is cleaned well.
• Offering a variety of nutritious foods and having healthy snacks on hand.
• Avoiding or limiting sugary foods and drinks (such as sweets, chocolate, sweet biscuits, soft drinks, fruit juice and flavoured milk), especially between meals.
• Offering tap water. Where tap water is fluoridated, it is good for teeth and safe to drink.

Key points#

• Every child should have a basic mouth check by the time they turn two.
• Regular check-ups catch the early signs of decay and let small problems be treated before they grow.
• Preparing your child and keeping visits positive helps them feel comfortable at the dentist.
• Good daily habits — gentle brushing and limiting sugary foods and drinks — protect children’s teeth.

Where to get help#