How do I look after my childs teeth?
First (or ‘baby’ or ‘milk’) teeth usually start to appear when your child is around 6 months old. All 20 baby teeth should appear by the age of 2.
The first permanent ‘adult’ molars (back teeth) will appear at about 6 years, before the first baby teeth start to fall out at about 6 to 7. The permanent ‘adult’ teeth will then replace the ‘baby’ teeth. It is usually the lower front teeth that are lost first, followed by the upper front teeth shortly after. All permanent teeth should be in place by the age of 13, except the ‘wisdom’ teeth. These may appear any time between 18 and 25 years of age.
All children are different and develop at different rates, speak to your dentist if you are concerned for any reason.
When should my child see a dentist?
It is recommended that children should go to the dentist with their parents as soon as possible. This will let them get used to the noises, smells and surroundings and prepare them for future visits.
The earlier these visits start, the more relaxed the children will be. We usually recommend that they come to your appointments with you (not when having any treatment done in the first instance), this way they can see what happens any maybe even have a ride in the chair!
It is important to remember your child is very impressionable and will pick up on any anxiety that you may have. Try to remain calm and positive and encourage your child to interact with the dental team. This will be beneficial in the future should your child require any treatment.
Try not to let your child hear any of your fears when talking to them about a visit to the dentist as this could have a life long negative impact on them.
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please do not hesitate to call us on 0121 550 6958.
Clare