Children's Dentistry

Regular oral hygiene should start early in your child’s life. Babies’ first teeth appear around the age of 6 months. Even before baby teeth are present, a soft cloth should be used to gently rub a baby’s gums clean twice a day. As soon as the first tooth can be seen it is time for brushing, using a soft toothbrush to massage the teeth and the surrounding gums. A small amount of toothpaste can be introduced around 18 months of age. All the baby teeth are in place between two and three years old, and flossing needs to be introduced to prevent cavities between tightly packed baby molars. Your dentist can provide you with some ideas on how to make this an easy process at your baby’s first dental visit, recommended at the age of two.

Introducing an oral hygiene routine and friendly dentist visits early in life allow toddlers to develop an understanding of the importance of looking after teeth in a low stress environment. It is normal to face resistance and using creative ideas like brushing to a song or a game can often help. Parental brushing supervision is recommended until about eight to ten years of age. At expatdental®, our oral hygienists can help educate and encourage your child about their teeth and care. We recommend bringing your toddler for a ride on the “big chair” as their first visit and introduction to the dentist. This helps to alleviate anxiety and encourages a positive familiar relationship with the dentist and hygienist.

As young people move towards independence and adulthood, teenagers need a full understanding of the value of oral hygiene practices so that they can take responsibility for their dental health. This is especially important if they are treated with orthodontics. During orthodontics oral hygiene practices become more difficult. 

Our dentists will be able to show you exactly how to keep both your braces and your teeth clean. Flossing twice daily and extended brushing with a soft toothbrush is essential to avoid any unnecessary damage to the teeth resulting from retained plaque on and around orthodontic devices. Specially designed floss and toothbrushes are available for those hard to reach places. Remember to continue seeing your general dentist and hygienist every six months despite having regular orthodontic visits.