A bite-sized guide to visiting the dentist

Say the words ‘dentist visit’ to some people, and they’ll break into a cold sweat. Perhaps at some point in their life, they’ve had an unpleasant or painful experience while in the dental chair. It’s only natural that we want to ensure our kids enjoy going to the dentist and practise good oral hygiene.

We’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions parents ask about taking kids to the dentist, like when you should bring them, and how to keep them calm.

When do I need to take my child for their first visit to the dentist?

How do I choose a good dentist for my child?

It is recommended that children visit the dentist from the age of one, or whenever they get their first tooth (whichever comes first). Whilst it may sound early (what can possibly be wrong with those adorable little pearly whites at one year old?), the idea is that you can identify any possible issues early and therefore treat the problem more easily.

How frequently do kids need to see the dentist?

What can I do for my kids to maintain healthy teeth?

Paediatric dentists specialise in dentistry for children. They are generally well-trained in dealing with kids and can identify any potential issues quite quickly (it’s amazing what they can see during a quick peek inside a toddler’s mouth!). But it’s not essential that your child sees a paediatric dentist. You may have a great relationship with your own dentist and prefer to take your kids to see them instead. It’s totally up to you, and the most important thing is that your kids are comfortable with their dentist. Need recommendations? Check out our list of fam-friendly dentists in Singapore. Aim for a visit to the dentist every six months from their first visit. The objective is to establish good oral hygiene practices, nip any potential issues in the bud and ensure the kids develop a happy relationship with their dentist.

Keep yourself informed about what foods commonly lead to cavities. Stick to healthy whole foods, and avoid sugar-dense foods and acidic drinks like soda and juices when possible. Encourage the children to drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Singapore’s water supply contains fluoride (about 0.6mg per litre of water) and is safe to drink too.