Children
Paediatric dentistry
Examination of children, preventive care and treatment of primary teeth. On this page we explain when the first examination can be done, preventive treatments and how to prepare your child for the visit.
On this page
In brief
- First examination
- Usually around age one
- Check-up interval
- Usually every 6 months
- Examination time
- Usually 20–30 minutes
- Parent
- Present at the examination
Durations are general information and vary from person to person. Your own timeline is written in your treatment plan after the examination.
What is Paediatric dentistry?
Oral and dental health in children covers protecting the primary teeth, spotting decay early and monitoring the healthy eruption of the permanent teeth. Primary teeth matter for chewing, speech and holding space for the permanent teeth coming in underneath.
Preventive treatments help reduce the risk of decay: fluoride varnish is applied to the tooth surface to strengthen the enamel; a fissure sealant is a thin protective layer applied to the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of the molars.
With children, time is taken for the child to get used to the setting before any treatment. Each step is first explained, then shown, and then carried out. In some cases treatment is split into several short sessions.
Who may it suit?
Usually considered
- Babies whose first teeth have come in (for the first examination)
- Children with primary or mixed dentition
- Children with decay, fractures or discolouration in primary teeth
- Children to be assessed for preventive care (fluoride varnish, fissure sealants)
- Children with habits such as thumb sucking
Further assessment may be needed
- Children with widespread decay needing lengthy treatment
- Very anxious children or children unable to cooperate with treatment
- General health problems or regular medication
- Problems with the jaws or tooth alignment (an orthodontic assessment may be needed)
For children who find it hard to cooperate or who need extensive treatment, referral to a centre offering sedation or general anaesthesia may be discussed if needed. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Step-by-step process
Getting to know us
Time is taken for your child to get used to the setting; the chair and instruments are introduced.
Examination
The teeth, gums and pattern of tooth development are examined. If needed, an X-ray is taken.
Explanation
The findings, oral care, diet and, if needed, treatment options are explained to you.
Preventive care
If considered suitable, fluoride varnish or fissure sealants are applied.
Treatment (if needed)
Treatments such as fillings in primary teeth, root canal treatment of primary teeth or space maintainers for teeth lost early are done in one or more sessions depending on the child's cooperation.
Regular check-ups
Check-ups are usually every 6 months; the interval may be shorter if the risk of decay is high.
Aftercare
Oral care at home
- From the moment the first tooth appears, teeth should be brushed twice a day; for young children an adult should do or finish the brushing.
- The amount of fluoride toothpaste depends on age; your dentist will tell you the right amount.
- Limit sugary food and drinks to main meals rather than giving them often as snacks.
- Do not let your child fall asleep with a bottle or a sugary drink.
After treatment
If anaesthesia was used, watch your child so they do not bite their lip or cheek and do not give them food until the numbness wears off.
Possible risks and precautions
The possible risks of procedures in children are explained to you at the examination.
- After anaesthesia the child may bite their lip or cheek; care is needed until the numbness wears off.
- If the child cannot cooperate with treatment, the procedure may be postponed or referral to another centre may be needed.
- Fissure sealants and fillings may wear or come off over time; they are renewed at check-ups.
- Even after treatment, a primary tooth may still be lost early; in that case a space maintainer may be needed.
Frequently asked questions
How can I prepare my child for the visit?
Talk about the visit beforehand, calmly; instead of words that may cause worry such as “it won’t hurt”, use phrases like “we’ll count your teeth”. Try to choose a time when your child is rested.
Can I stay with my child during the examination?
Yes. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Young children can sit on your lap during the examination.
What is a fissure sealant, and does every child need one?
It is a thin protective layer applied to the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of the molars. Not every child needs one; it is recommended based on the shape of the teeth and the risk of decay.
What happens if a primary tooth is lost early?
If a gap is left, neighbouring teeth may shift and there may not be enough room for the permanent tooth underneath. In that case a space maintainer may be recommended.
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