At Doria Clinic we want a visit to the dentist to be a positive, fun experience. Oral health in childhood is the foundation of a healthy smile in adulthood, so we focus on prevention and on building a trusting relationship with the youngest patients.
Children’s check-ups
We don’t wait for pain before acting. At regular check-ups we monitor the growth of the jaws and the eruption of baby and permanent teeth, which allows us to catch bite or spacing problems early. We also teach children, and their parents, proper brushing techniques.
Dental sealants
A thin layer of protective resin applied to the fissures of the permanent molars, which usually come through from age 6. It stops food debris and bacteria getting trapped in the hardest areas to brush. It’s a quick, painless procedure that requires no anaesthesia.
Preventive treatments
- Professional fluoride treatment: high-concentration fluoride to remineralise enamel and make it more resistant to acids.
- Habit control: dummy use, thumb-sucking and diet, to prevent future malformations.
Interceptive orthodontics
Carried out while the child still has baby teeth or is in the middle of the transition. Its goal isn’t just to align the teeth, but to correct the bone structure while it’s still mouldable: widening the palate or guiding jaw growth so the permanent teeth have enough space. Treating a bite misalignment at age 7 or 8 can prevent much longer, more costly treatment during adolescence. More on orthodontics.
Frequently asked questions
When should my child first go to the dentist?
Around their first birthday, or when their first baby teeth come through. The sooner they get used to the clinic, the easier it will be for future visits to be a calm experience.
Do cavities in baby teeth need treating if they're going to fall out anyway?
Yes. An untreated cavity can become infected and affect the permanent tooth forming underneath, as well as causing pain and chewing problems in the meantime.
Do dental sealants hurt?
No. It's a quick, painless procedure that doesn't require anaesthesia: the molar is cleaned and the protective resin is applied directly to the surface.
At what age should a dummy be given up or thumb-sucking corrected?
Ideally before age 3-4. Continuing beyond that can affect the position of the teeth and the development of the palate.