Caring for your children’s teeth and putting your child at ease!
Caring for Children and their teeth
Here at Mike Allen’s Dental Practice
Children’s teeth require all the love and attention adults teeth do! We recommend that we work together to make your child feel relaxed about coming to visit the dentist in Burton on Trent. We encourage patients to bring their children as young as possible to get used to the surroundings, noises and smells to prepare them for their visits. Children can sense fear in their parents, and often this fear can then be passed on. If you do have fears of your own we advise you don’t discuss them in front of your child.
Whilst waiting in reception we have colouring sheets available, and children’s magazines to browse through, and should nobody object, we are happy to put ceebies on for smaller children if requested, and of course good behaviour is always rewarded with a choice or sticker, so do ask at reception!
When to expect teeth erupting
Children’s teeth need to be cleaned as soon as they erupt. They usually start to come through at around 6 months, and all 20 baby teeth are normally present by 2 and a half years old.
The first ‘adult’ teeth to erupt will appear at around 6 years of age. These molars erupt behind the baby teeth. Baby teeth will start to fall out at around 6-7 years also. Normally all adult teeth apart from the wisdom teeth have erupted by 13 years of age.
Home care
Please do not think that it’s ok to neglect baby teeth on the grounds that they will be replaced. Should a child not brush efficiently, and consume too much sugar they may develop holes in teeth, which will become painful and require filling. This can be quite traumatic for children and may onset deeper phobias. Prevention really is the cure.
Developing morning and bedtime routines from the word go is essential for children to maintain long-term habits. Always choose an age appropriate fluoride toothpaste and brush (this will be stated on packaging).
As with yourself, brush purposefully in a set routine. For instance upper outsides, then upper insides, lower outsides then lower insides. Pay special attention to the gum margins and brush using small circular motions. Make sure any excess toothpaste is spat away and not swallowed.
Visits with the hygienist
As with adults teeth, establishing a good homecare routine is essential. Working with our hygienist will help you to monitor your child’s progress by pointing out any missed areas, and show ways to improve your child’s techniques to prevent future tooth and gum problems. The hygienist may also polish the teeth to remove any missed plaque and apply fluoride gels if necessary.
Plans for children at the practice
Like adults, you have the choice of paying privately as you go along, or joining our Denplan payment scheme. There is no charge for children under 3. Plans start from £7.34 per month (2015 pricelist), and include regular Examinations and Hygienist appointments. We also offer a family discount of 5% for a second member, 10% for a third and 15% for a fourth or more.
Please contact the practice for any more information about our plans.