When Should the First Dental Exam Be Done?
In line with the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child's first dental examination should be performed shortly after the first tooth erupts, or by age 1 at the latest.
The purpose of this early visit is not treatment but rather introduction and assessment. The dentist guides parents on infant oral care, pacifier use, and dietary habits. Early acquaintance with the dentist significantly reduces dental anxiety in later years.
Why Are Primary Teeth Important?
Primary teeth are not merely temporary teeth. They play a critical role in chewing function, speech development, and aesthetics. Most importantly, they serve as space holders for the proper positioning of permanent teeth.
Primary teeth lost early cause neighboring teeth to drift into the gap. This can lead to crowding of permanent teeth and the need for orthodontic treatment. For this reason, cavities in primary teeth must always be treated.
How Does Proper Brushing Change by Age?
Ages 0-2: Oral cleaning should be performed twice daily using a wet cloth or finger toothbrush with fluoride-free or very low-fluoride toothpaste.
Ages 2-6: A children's toothbrush with a rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is used. Brushing during this period must be done under parental supervision. Children do not yet have the ability to fully rinse and spit.
Ages 6 and above: A pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is sufficient. Parental supervision is still recommended. Children should be assisted with brushing until their manual dexterity is fully developed, usually until ages 7-8.
The Relationship Between Nutrition and Cavities
The frequency of consumption of sugary foods and beverages is far more significant than the quantity. Frequent consumption of sweets or acidic drinks throughout the day causes teeth to be constantly exposed to acid attacks.
A particularly important point regarding pacifier and bottle use is this: Letting a child fall asleep with sugary liquids (fruit juice, milk, formula) leads to rapidly progressing front tooth decay known as 'bottle caries.' The bottle contents should ideally be only water.
Cheese, yogurt, fibrous vegetables, and fruits are tooth-friendly foods. These foods provide natural protection by increasing saliva production.
Approaching Children with Dental Phobia
Dental fear is quite common among children. The biggest factor fueling this fear is usually the negative experiences shared by parents or the social environment. Instead of phrases like 'it won't hurt' or 'don't be scared,' explain the process to your child in simple, concrete language.
Pediatric dentists are specially trained in this area. Treatment is planned with the child's comfort as the priority, using the Tell-Show-Do method, breathing exercises, distraction techniques, and sedation options when necessary.
Written by
Dt. Gaye Üstüner
Pediatric Dentistry Specialist · PhD Researcher at Yeditepe University