Let’s be real. Getting your child to brush their teeth is hard enough. Add in a masked adult pointing a mirror and tools into their mouth, and the first trip to the dentist can feel like a battle you’re not prepared for. But here’s the thing: getting kids used to dental visits early on sets the stage for a lifetime of better oral health and less drama in the chair.
So what do parents actually need to know? We’ve rounded up some practical advice, backed by expert tips, and added a few local pointers to help you feel prepared (and maybe even a little smug) next time the topic of kids’ teeth comes up in the playground.
Start Earlier Than You Think
Many parents are surprised to learn that kids should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth poking through. While that might feel early, the idea is to get kids used to the dental environment and to give parents guidance on brushing techniques, diet, and habits that could impact teeth down the track.
Experts in General Dentistry recommend early check-ups to help catch issues before they become major, and to build familiarity so that future visits are less daunting for everyone involved.
Preparation Is Half the Battle
If your child is already old enough to have an opinion (and let’s face it, most are), prepping them for the dentist is key. Try some dentist role play at home. Take turns being the dentist and the patient, use a toothbrush to “count” teeth, and make it light-hearted. Books and cartoons about going to the dentist can also help normalise the experience.
Some parents bring their younger child along to an older sibling’s appointment just to observe. Seeing a brother or sister go first can make it seem a lot less scary. If possible, book appointments in the morning when kids are usually fresher and less likely to melt down.
And don’t stress if your child doesn’t open their mouth on the first go. Celebrate small wins. Even sitting in the chair and having a chat with the dentist is a step in the right direction.
The Sugar Trap (and Other Sneaky Culprits)
It’s not just lollies that are the enemy. It’s how often kids are exposed to sugary or acidic foods that really does the damage. Frequent snacking, sipping juice throughout the day, or grazing on sticky dried fruits can leave teeth constantly under attack.
Try to keep sugary foods to mealtimes, encourage water between snacks, and brush teeth twice a day. For toddlers under three, a smear of low-fluoride toothpaste is enough. Once teeth start touching, flossing becomes important too – even if they’re baby teeth.
Dummies, Bottles and Thumb-Sucking
Some habits are harder to break than others. Prolonged use of dummies and bottles, especially overnight, can contribute to issues with teeth alignment and decay. Thumb-sucking can also affect how teeth and jaws develop. Dentists can offer advice and gentle strategies if these habits are hanging on longer than they should.
What to Expect at the Appointment
Most early visits are short and sweet. The dentist will check the teeth, gums, and bite, look for signs of decay, and give advice about oral care. They might do a quick clean or fluoride application, depending on the age of the child and their comfort level.
The goal is to build trust. A calm, friendly dentist who takes the time to chat and explain what they’re doing can make all the difference. If your child is nervous, let the dental clinic know when you book so they can plan accordingly.
So Where Should You Go?
The good news is, here in the Shire, we’re lucky to have plenty of family-friendly dental practices that understand how to make kids feel safe and supported. You can browse our Dental Services Directory to find a local option that suits your family.
Even better? Tap into the collective wisdom of more than 25,000 local mums in our Facebook group. It’s a goldmine for recommendations, real-life reviews, and handy tips – whether you’re looking for a gentle dentist, tips to ditch the dummy, or advice on flossing tiny teeth without starting World War III.
