Before the visit
- Pick a good time. Morning or after a nap, not near mealtime or bedtime.
- Talk about it simply and positively. “The dentist will count your teeth and see how strong they are.”
- Read a picture book or play “dentist” at home, counting teeth with a toothbrush.
- Bring a comfort toy.
- Tell us beforehand about any medical conditions, medicines or worries, including your own nervousness.
Words to avoid
| Instead of | Try |
|---|---|
| “It won’t hurt” | “The dentist is going to look at your teeth” |
| “Injection”, “drill”, “pull” | Leave the explaining to the dentist |
| “Be brave” | “We’ll go together” |
| Bribes for “being good” | A small treat for going, whatever happens |
Children pick up on adult worry. If you’re nervous about the dentist yourself, try not to share stories about bad experiences.
On the day
| Age | What usually happens |
|---|---|
| Under 3 | Knee-to-knee check with your child on your lap; advice on brushing and feeding |
| 3–6 | Sits in the chair, “ride” up and down, counting teeth, a gentle polish and fluoride if needed |
| 6 and up | Check-up, X-rays if needed, cleaning, fissure sealants on new adult molars if advised |
Toothpaste and brushing, in brief
- From the first tooth, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste: a smear for under-threes, a pea-sized amount from three to six.
- Help with brushing until about seven or eight.
- Avoid sugary drinks in bottles, and don’t let your baby sleep with milk in a bottle.
At Petal Smiles
Our paediatric dentist sees children from their first tooth onwards, with short, friendly visits planned around their pace, and our paediatrician, Dr. Sunisha Arora, looks after their general health. We’re open every day until 8pm, so visits can fit around nursery and school. See children’s dental care.
Questions patients ask us
At what age should a child first see the dentist?
By the first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth. Early visits are mostly about prevention and getting used to the clinic.
What happens at a child's first dental visit?
A quick look at the teeth and gums, often with your child on your lap, a check for early decay, and advice on brushing, toothpaste, feeding and habits like thumb-sucking. For older children, a gentle clean and fluoride may be added.
How long is the first visit?
Usually 15 to 30 minutes.
What if my child cries?
It's normal and fine. Young children often cry at new places. We go at their pace, and a short, positive first visit matters more than doing everything.
Should I stay with my child?
Yes, for young children. You can sit with them or hold them on your lap.
Can my child see the paediatrician on the same day?
Petal Smiles has a paediatrician, Dr. Sunisha Arora, as well as a paediatric dentist. Call us and we'll book both appointments.
Sources
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: parent FAQs ↗NHS: how to keep your teeth clean ↗Last updated 14 October 2026.