Q. When should I bring my child in for their first visit to the dentist?

We recommend your child’s first visit should be around 2 years of age as they generally have all their baby teeth by then. However if you are concerned about your child’s developing teeth at any stage, even if they have only a few teeth, then bring them in as we will certainly give you advice to allay any concerns.

At Bardon Smiles, we believe in giving children a positive dental experience for life. Our dentists relate well to children and will ensure their visits are fun and informative. Often children do not want to leave or are eagerly looking forward to their next  visit after having rides in the chair and being rewarded with many prizes!

Q. I would like to bring the whole family in but I’m concerned about my children having to wait around. Should I make separate appointments?

Absolutely not! Everyone is busy these days so it is more convenient to have fewer visits if possible. We have put a lot of thought into how to make your whole family’s dental visit as stress free as possible. We have iPads for the family to use so they can play games or go on the internet, a television to entertain them and for the little ones, a lego table to construct things with. While the children are having their treatment they can watch a movie DVD from a TV on the ceiling. Kids love this! You will be pleasantly surprised at how much the little added extras help make your family’s dental visits enjoyable. Our treatment rooms have a gorgeous view and give you a feeling of tranquillity and relaxment. For those with a little extra help to relax we do offer happy gas as an option to ease your nerves.

Q. I have trouble getting my children to brush their teeth. Do you show them how to brush their teeth?

We certainly do when we feel the need to. Please let us know if there is anything you would like us to focus on with your child whether it be motivating them to brush their teeth or reducing their sugar intake.   We want to educate your children to take care of their teeth for life as prevention is better than cure. Often a word or two from our dentists about taking better care of your child’s teeth works better than a parent’s “nagging”. Our dentists take the time to show your child where they need to improve their oral hygiene and our disclosing gels are a fantastic way of educating your child to brush their teeth better. We have a fantastic sugar poster which indicates how much sugar are in certain drinks and that is certainly an eye opener for adults and children alike.

Q. What can I do to protect my child’s teeth?

Fissure Sealants –  A fissure sealant is a protective tooth coloured plastic coating that is bonded in the pits and grooves (fissures) of teeth to stop decay from forming. It is generally placed from 6 years old when the adult molars erupt. Our practice uses a high quality sealant which not only pyhsically protects the teeth from dangerous bacterial acids but also releases fluoride to strengthen the teeth. We ensure no decay is present before sealing over the grooves. Despite the heavy pressures effected on the teeth during chewing each day, dental sealants may remain effective for five years or longer,  although sealants do wear naturally.

Flossing – we educate all children to floss their teeth early to maintain this important habit. You can be the best brusher in the world however if you don’t floss, you can still get cavities (holes) in your teeth!.  Children can find it hard to floss their teeth so we do sell special floss holders which makes this vital part of cleaning so much easier.

Six monthly check ups and cleans – It is important to maintain these regular visits as children often need motivation and reinforcement  especially with their brushing and snacking. In six months there can be many changes and any small cavities that have been formed can easily be treated often without local anaesthetic. Waiting for a child to experience tooth ache is definitely not good for a child.