The first dental visit should happen by the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth appearing.
Early visits are short and relaxed. We check the teeth and gums, look for early decay, and give parents simple advice on brushing, feeding and teething.
At home, brush twice a day. Use a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste under three years and a pea-sized amount after that. Avoid putting a child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
Talk about the dentist positively. Avoid words like hurt or injection. Let your child bring a favourite toy.
Regular six-monthly visits mean problems are caught early, and your child grows up comfortable in the dental chair.