When should your child visit the dentist for the first time? Many parents think this is only necessary once all baby teeth have erupted. However, it is wise to start much earlier.
The advice is to take your child to the dentist from the moment their first tooth appears. This way, your child becomes familiar with the dental practice at a young age, and any dental problems can be detected early.
At We Smile Tandartsen in Leiden, we believe it is important for children to feel safe and at ease. With personal attention and a calm approach, we help children build a positive experience with the dentist.
At what age should a child visit the dentist?
The advice is to take your child as soon as the first baby tooth erupts, usually around the age of six months.
You do not need to wait until your child is two years old.
During these first visits, we monitor the development of the teeth and provide parents with advice on brushing, nutrition, and preventing cavities.
Starting early has several advantages:
- Your child becomes accustomed to the dentist and the treatment chair.
- Early dental problems can be detected in time.
- You receive advice on tooth brushing and fluoride.
- The chance of dental anxiety in later life can be reduced.
More information about our methods can be found on our page about pediatric dentistry.
Why are baby teeth so important?
Although baby teeth are eventually replaced by permanent teeth, they play a vital role in your child’s development.
Baby teeth are necessary for proper chewing and speaking. Additionally, they help maintain space for the permanent teeth.
A cavity in a baby tooth can cause pain and sometimes even lead to an infection.
Healthy baby teeth therefore form an important foundation for a healthy permanent set of teeth.
Start brushing twice a day as soon as the first tooth erupts. Use an appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste for your child’s age and assist your child with brushing.
What happens during the first dental visit?
The first dental visit is primarily about getting acquainted.
We take the time to make your child feel comfortable in the environment. For young children, the check-up can often take place while they sit on a parent’s lap.
During the appointment, we look at:
- The eruption and development of the teeth.
- The health of the gums.
- Any early signs of cavities.
- Brushing habits and the use of fluoride.
- Dietary and drinking habits.
There is also plenty of opportunity to ask questions.
A first visit does not need to be long. The most important thing is that your child has a pleasant introduction to the dentist.
How do you prepare your child for the dentist?
Proper preparation can help ensure the first dental visit is a relaxed experience.
Our tips for parents:
- Explain what the dentist does in a positive and simple way.
- Read a children’s book about visiting the dentist together.
- If appropriate, let your child watch during your own check-up.
- Avoid scary stories about painful treatments.
- Give your child the space to get used to things at their own pace.
It is better to say that the dentist will count and look at the teeth, rather than promising that they won’t feel anything at all.
Is your child still nervous? That is not a problem. We adjust the pace and try to build trust step by step.
How often should a child visit the dentist?
Many children come for a check-up approximately every six months, but this is not a fixed rule.
The dentist determines how often a check-up is necessary based on oral health, age, and the risk of cavities.
For children with an increased risk of caries, shorter check-up intervals may be advisable.
During these appointments, we not only assess the teeth but also discuss how you can help prevent cavities at home.
Is the pediatric dentist covered by health insurance?
Yes. For children up to 18 years old, most regular dental treatments are covered by the basic insurance.
This includes, among others:
- Periodic check-ups.
- Treatment of cavities.
- Preventive oral care.
- Dental cleaning when necessary.
- Most other regular dental treatments.
There is no mandatory deductible (eigen risico) for this care for children.
Supplementary dental insurance is usually not necessary. Orthodontics and some specialized treatments are not standardly covered by the basic insurance.
Pediatric Dentist in Leiden at We Smile Tandartsen
Are you looking for a child-friendly dentist in Leiden?
At We Smile Tandartsen, we pay great attention to a calm introduction and a pleasant treatment experience.
We understand that every child is different. Some children walk into the treatment room enthusiastically, while others need more time to adjust.
We take this into account.
Our goal is to familiarize children with good oral care from a young age, so they continue to visit the dentist with confidence.
New young patients are also welcome.
Would you like to register your child? You can easily register your child online or make an appointment.
A healthy smile begins with the first tooth.