Many parents believe that children only need to see a dentist when they have grown enough teeth or when pain appears. However, dental experts affirm that the foundation for lifelong oral health is formed very early, even from the first milky teeth.
According to Dr. Jaineel Parekh, a dental worker in Mumbai (India), the ideal time for children to have their first dental check-up is before their first birthday or within six months from the time the first tooth grows. At this stage, dental check-ups are not for treatment but focus on prevention and guiding parents on how to properly care for children's oral health.
During an early check-up, the dentist will check the gums, the development of the jawbone, and how the teeth grow. At the same time, parents are instructed on basic habits such as wiping gums with a soft towel after breastfeeding, cleaning their teeth before bed, and avoiding sugary drinks for children at night. These simple measures help reduce bacteria and limit the risk of early tooth decay.
When children start teething, brushing twice a day with a soft brush and clean water is necessary. From about two years old, children can use a very small amount of fluoride-containing toothpaste under the advice of a dentist. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of tooth decay, especially with milky teeth. In some cases, dentists may prescribe fluoride varnish to increase teeth protection.
Besides the time of the first dental check-up, periodic check-ups also play an important role. Experts recommend that children go for dental check-ups about every six months. Regular monitoring helps dentists detect early signs such as white spots on teeth, early tooth decay, habits of sucking, grinding teeth or breathing through the mouth, factors that can affect bite joints and jaw development later.
Early and regular dental check-ups also help children get acquainted with the dental environment, thereby reducing fear and anxiety as they grow up. When going to the dentist becomes a familiar habit, children tend to maintain better oral hygiene throughout their lives.
In addition, diet also directly affects children's oral health. Limiting sugary foods and drinks, avoiding giving children milk or soft drinks before bed, and encouraging drinking filtered water are simple but effective ways to prevent tooth decay.
Dr. Jaineel Parekh said that children who are examined dentally before the age of one have a lower rate of tooth decay and the cost of oral treatment later also decreases significantly. This shows that early preventive care not only protects teeth but also brings long-term benefits to children's overall health.
