As your local dentists in Sheffield, we support your family throughout your whole lives. From your first baby teeth, to orthodontics and ongoing care and prevention as an adult, we love to help families and support your overall health and well-being.
Studies have shown that children who attend the dentist consistently from an early age can go on to have a significantly lower risk of dental problems into adulthood, by promoting preventative care and early detection of any dental issues.
When should we attend?
Before their first birthday, or when first milk teeth come in. You should start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they erupt, even if there’s just one! Caring for your child’s ‘baby teeth’ is really important; these teeth help your child chew, speak and save space for permanent teeth. Even though they eventually fall out, ‘baby’ teeth set the foundation for lifelong oral health and wellbeing.
Before their first appointment, you could have fun role-playing as a dentist and patient, and/or pretend to check the teeth of their favourite teddy or doll; you could even bring their favourite toy or comfort item to help them feel reassured. We would advise organising an appointment at a time of day where your child is both well-rested and fed, so that they are in a calm and happy. Our dentists in Sheffield will be able to help you and your family start great habits for oral health.
What Happens in the First Appointment?
The first appointment is all about getting to know each other, and building a positive relationship with your child. Children are brought in with their parents/guardians and are introduced to the dentist/clinician. Often with babies we would have the child on your lap, and get to know the space and clinician. If your child is old enough, and willing to be examined, our clinicians check their mouth for early signs of decay, how their teeth are developing, and how their soft tissues are. Our clinicians can offer advice on how to care for your child’s teeth and gums, how to help build healthy habits, and address any concerns you might have.
Our dentists in Sheffield are all able to handle and ease dental anxiety, as well as keep kids engaged and interested in their appointments and treatment. If your child is not willing or able to be examined, their dentist/clinician will spend their time reassuring them, getting to know them, and build the foundations for future visits.
How often should we attend?
Our dentists in Sheffield will advise on how often your child should attend. Most children are on 6 monthly or 3 monthly visits. We encourage children to attend in family appointments, so that they can see what’s happening and get used to the environment. When you visit the dentist, be positive about it and make the trip fun. This will stop your child worrying about future visits.
How do I book?
If you have registered your child’s information with us already, you can book an appointment online once you have had your reminder to do so. If you have had your baby and haven’t spoken to us yet, please call the Practice on 01142661265 and our reception team can assist you. Our dentists in Sheffield will be happy to support your family’s wellbeing now and in the future.
Find out more
To find out more about our children’s and family appointments, you can check out our website here:
Resources
There are lots of resources that you can access to help you prepare for your child’s first visit to the dentist, or to help them become familiar with the idea of visiting the dentist. There are books, ‘dentist’ imaginary play kits, videos and blogs. We would always recommend getting oral health advice from the Oral Health Foundation; they provide accurate information from a secure and safe source.