Children’s Dental Care: When to Start and What to Expect
We’re proud to be a family-friendly practice offering private dental care for children in Exeter and the surrounding areas.
At Inspired Dental Care, we believe that great oral health starts young. As a trusted and prime provider of private dentistry in Exeter, one of the most common questions we receive from parents is: “When should I first take my child to the dentist?” Closely followed by: “What should I expect during their early visits?”
Establishing good dental habits early in life can make a world of difference. In this blog we’ll explain when to start dental visits, what to expect, and how our Exeter-based team supports families with exceptional children’s dental care.
When Should Children First Visit the Dentist?
The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommend that:
Children should visit the dentist when their first tooth appears, typically between 6 and 12 months of age.
While it might seem early, these initial visits are an essential part of early prevention and familiarisation. At Inspired Dental Care, our private dental clinic is proud to offer gentle, child-friendly dentistry designed to make even the youngest patients feel at ease.
Why Start So Early?
Starting dental visits in infancy offers several key benefits:
- Preventing Dental Problems Early
Early check-ups allow us to identify:
- Signs of early tooth decay;
- Issues with tooth alignment;
- Teething or development concerns;
This preventative approach: a cornerstone of private dentistry at Inspired Dental Care helps reduce the need for complex treatment later.
- Building Confidence
The earlier a child becomes familiar with the dental environment, the more confident and relaxed they’ll feel. A calm, comfortable setting, such as our Exeter dental practice, helps turn dental care into a positive experience rather than a fearful one.
- Supporting Parents
As a parent, you’ll receive professional guidance on:
- Brushing and flossing techniques;
- Fluoride use;
- Managing dummies and thumb-sucking;
- The role of diet in your child’s oral health;
Our dentists and supporting team is here to support your whole family every step of the way.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit
At Inspired Dental Care, we aim to make your child’s first appointment calm, friendly, and fun. Here’s what you can expect at our Exeter private dental clinic:
- A gentle introduction to the dental chair and surroundings;
- A visual check of your child’s gums, teeth, and bite;
- Personalised advice for brushing, teething, and diet;
- Plenty of time for questions and reassurance;
There’s no pressure; we move at your child’s pace. Whether they sit on your lap or explore the chair on their own, we make it an enjoyable experience.
How Often Should Children Visit the Dentist?
We will recommend frequency of dental visits depending on your child’s individual needs and dental development status.
Routine examinations at our Exeter dental clinic allow our dental team to:
- Track tooth and jaw development;
- Spot early signs of tooth decay;
- Offer guidance as new teeth come in;
Preparing Your Child for the Dentist
Here are a few tips to help your little one feel ready and excited about visiting Inspired Dental Care:
- Be positive: Talk about the dentist as a helper who keeps teeth clean and strong;
- Read children’s books or watch shows about dental visits;
- Practise at home: Role-play brushing or opening wide like at the dentist;
- Book early in the day when children are alert and well-rested;
Our friendly team at Inspired Dental Care in Exeter will take care of the rest, making your child feel safe and welcome at every step.
Common Dental Concerns in Children
🦷 Teething
Mild discomfort and fussiness are normal during teething. We can advise on safe teething remedies during your child’s dental visits.
🦷 Thumb-sucking and Dummies
Prolonged habits can affect how teeth come in. At our private Exeter practice, we’ll recommend supportive ways to break the habit when the time is right.
🦷 Decay in Baby Teeth
It’s a myth that baby teeth aren’t important … decay can lead to pain, infections, and future alignment issues. Preventative care is a major focus of our private children’s dentistry services in Exeter.
🦷 Dental Injuries
If your child chips or knocks a tooth, call Inspired Dental Care immediately. Early action often prevents long-term issues.
Supporting Healthy Habits at Home
Alongside regular check-ups at our Exeter dental clinic, here’s how to promote oral health at home:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for their specific age;
- Help children brush until they’re at least or feel completely confident doing it;
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks between meals;
- Offer water or milk instead of juice;
- Encourage a diet rich in calcium and fresh produce;
Our private dental team in Exeter is always happy to tailor advice to your child’s age and stage.
Preventive Treatments for Children
We also offer preventive treatments as part of our private children’s dentistry services, including:
- Fluoride varnish to strengthen enamel;
- Fissure sealants to protect the back teeth from decay;
These quick, painless treatments can make a big difference in reducing the risk of cavities.
Why Choose Inspired Dental Care for Your Child’s Oral Health?
Choosing a private dentist in Exeter for your child means access to:
- Longer, unhurried appointments;
- Individualised care plans;
- Flexible scheduling;
- The latest techniques in gentle children’s dentistry;
At Inspired Dental Care, we’re more than just a dental practice, we’re a partner in your child’s long-term health and happiness.
Book Your Child’s Dental Appointment in Exeter Today
If your child is due for their first dental visit or you’re looking to switch to a private family dentist, we’d love to welcome you to Inspired Dental Care in Exeter.
📞 Call today to book your appointment
📩 Or visit our website to learn more about private dentistry for children in Exeter
🦷 Healthy habits begin with a confident, caring dental team
Let us help your child build a foundation for a lifetime of bright, healthy smiles.
