Many parents wait until there is a problem before a child sees a dentist. Starting earlier is easier for everyone: the first visits become a friendly routine rather than a treatment.
When to book
Book the first visit when the first tooth appears, or by your child's first birthday, whichever comes first. After that, most children come every six months.
What happens
- A short visit, usually 20 to 30 minutes, with you in the room the whole time.
- Your child can sit in the chair, ride it up and down, and look at the mirror and light.
- A gentle look at the teeth and gums, for very young children often on a parent's lap.
- Advice for you on brushing, teething, dummies, thumb-sucking and diet.
How to prepare your child
- Talk about the visit simply and positively, in the days before.
- Avoid words like hurt, pain, needle or drill. Leave the explaining to us.
- Book a time of day when your child is usually rested, not just before a nap.
- Bring a favourite toy if it helps.
Habits that protect baby teeth
- Brush twice a day. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste for children under three, and a pea-sized amount from three to six.
- Help with brushing until about age seven or eight. Children cannot clean properly on their own before then.
- Keep sweet drinks and snacks to mealtimes, and do not put a child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
- Offer water between meals.
Need to see someone?
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. For anything urgent, call 031 830 4471. We keep same-day slots free every weekday.