Children's dentistry

Children's Dentistry (Pedodontics)

Children's dentistry (pedodontics) is dental care for babies, children and teenagers: regular check-ups, prevention such as fluoride varnish and fissure sealants, and treatment of decay in baby and adult teeth. Take your child to the dentist when the first milk teeth appear, or before their first birthday, then for regular check-ups.

Published by Vita Smile Dental Clinic Sources (6)

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Key takeaways

  • Take your child to the dentist when the first milk teeth appear, or before they are 12 months old [1][2].
  • Baby teeth help children chew and speak, and hold space for the adult teeth [2].
  • Fluoride varnish reduced new decay by about 43% in adult teeth and 37% in baby teeth in a Cochrane review [3].
  • Resin sealants on adult back teeth reduced decay by 11% to 51% at 24 months compared with no sealant [4].
  • A first check-up with an orthodontist is recommended no later than age 7 [5].

At a glance

First visit
First tooth, or before age 1
Check-ups
As often as the dentist advises
Fluoride varnish
From age 3, at least twice a year
Fissure sealants
When adult back teeth come through
Orthodontic check
By age 7, with an orthodontist
Consent
Parent or legal guardian

Clinically reviewed by

Dr. Hediye Nur Uygun

General Dentistry

Last reviewed
Sources 6 sources cited

The basics

What is children's dentistry?

Children's dentistry, also called pedodontics or paediatric (pediatric) dentistry, covers the teeth and gums from the first milk tooth to the late teens. Most of it is prevention; the rest is treatment when decay or an injury has already happened.

Baby teeth matter even though they fall out. They help children chew and speak clearly, and form a path for the adult teeth to follow [2]. Losing them too early or too late can create problems for the adult teeth that replace them [5].

When a baby tooth has decay, the dentist may suggest:

  • A filling, to stop a small cavity from growing.
  • Pulp treatment, when decay has reached the nerve: a baby-tooth version of root canal treatment that aims to keep the tooth until it falls out.
  • Extraction, when a tooth cannot be saved, with a check of how the gap will affect the adult teeth.

Dental X-rays carry very little risk, and children's exposure to radiation should be kept as low as possible [2].

When to come

When should you bring your child to the dentist?

Bring your child when the first milk teeth appear, or before their first birthday [1], then at the interval your dentist sets [1][2]. Some signs mean your child should be seen sooner.

Book a routine check-up

  • Your baby's first tooth has come through, or they are nearly 12 months old [1]
  • Your child is about 3 and has not had fluoride varnish yet [1]
  • The first adult back teeth are coming through, usually at 6 or 7 [1]
  • Your child is about 7 and has not had a check-up with an orthodontist [5]

See a dentist sooner if

  • Your child has toothache or a swollen face [2]
  • An adult tooth has been knocked out: this is an emergency [2]
  • You notice dark spots, holes or broken teeth
  • The gums often bleed when your child brushes
  • Your child still sucks a thumb or fingers after age 3 [2]
  • Baby teeth are lost much earlier or later than usual [5]

Step by step

Your child's first dental visit

A first visit is mostly about getting to know the dentist. Just opening the mouth for the dentist to look is useful practice for the future [1].

  1. Before the visit

    Talk about it positively

    Be positive and make the trip fun, so your child does not worry about future visits [1]. Keep explanations short and avoid frightening words.

  2. At the clinic

    A parent or guardian comes too

    A parent or legal guardian gives the medical history and consents to any check or treatment. Tell the dentist if your child is nervous.

  3. The check

    Teeth, gums and bite

    The dentist looks at the teeth, the gums and how the teeth are coming through. X-rays are taken only if the dentist needs them.

  4. Prevention

    Advice for home

    You are shown how to brush, how much toothpaste to use and how to cut down sugar [1][2]. Fluoride varnish may be offered from age 3 [1].

  5. Afterwards

    A plan and the next visit

    Any treatment is explained before it is done, and the dentist tells you when to come back [2].

Each visit depends on your child's age and teeth.

A question about your child's teeth?

Send us a short message, and photos if you have them. A dentist reads it and replies with advice on the next step.

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Fluoride varnish vs fissure sealants vs check-ups alone

Both add protection on top of brushing and check-ups: varnish strengthens the enamel [1], sealants close the grooves of adult back teeth [1]. Cochrane reviewers could not say which works better; sealant plus varnish may help more than varnish alone, on very low-certainty evidence [6].

Fluoride varnish Fissure sealants Check-ups and home care alone
What it is High-fluoride varnish painted on the teeth Thin plastic coating on back teeth Examinations, advice, fluoride toothpaste
Which teeth Baby and adult teeth Adult back teeth All teeth
When From age 3, at least twice a year; earlier if needed At about 6 or 7, and again at 11 to 14 From the first tooth, as often as advised
How long it lasts Repeated about every 6 months Up to 4 years Depends on daily brushing and diet
Evidence 43% less new decay in adult teeth, 37% in baby teeth 11% to 51% less decay at 24 months The comparison group in these trials

Use and timing: NHS [1]. Evidence, moderate quality: varnish vs none, 22 trials [3]; resin sealants on first adult molars vs none, ages 5 to 10 [4]. Varnish vs sealants: 11 trials [6].

At home

Habits that protect, or harm, your child's teeth

Most of what keeps children's teeth healthy happens at home:

  • Brushing: twice a day for about 2 minutes, last thing at night and at one other time of day. Parents brush up to age 3, supervise from 3 to 6, and still watch older children [1].
  • Toothpaste: a smear with at least 1,000ppm fluoride up to age 3, a pea-sized amount from 3 to 6, and 1,350 to 1,500ppm from 7. Spit out, do not rinse [1].
  • Sugar: limit sugars and starches. Avoid nursing a child to sleep, and put nothing but water in a bedtime bottle [2].
  • Thumb and dummy habits: usually a problem only if they go on for a long time; past age 3, the dentist may suggest a mouth appliance [2].
  • Sport: a mouthguard protects the teeth, lips, cheeks and gums; ask your dentist about a custom-fitted one [2].
  • A knocked-out adult tooth: stay calm, hold it by the crown, not the root, and try to put it back in the socket. If you cannot, put it in a glass of milk and go to a dentist straight away [2].
  • Toothache: rinse with warm salt water, use a cold compress on a swollen face, never put aspirin on the gums, and see a dentist soon [2].

If your child's gums often bleed when brushing, mention it at the next visit; see gum care.

  • 1,000ppm

    minimum fluoride in toothpaste for children up to 3 [1]

  • Age 3

    when a thumb-sucking habit is worth discussing with the dentist [2]

  • By age 7

    the first check-up with an orthodontist [5]

Dr. Hediye Nur Uygun

From our dentist

“The best first visit for a child is a boring one: a quick look, a ride in the chair, nothing to treat. When that is a child's first memory of the dentist, the next visit is easier. At each check I watch how the teeth are coming through and show parents how to brush, because the evening routine at home matters more than anything I do in the chair. If your child is nervous, tell me beforehand and we will take it one step at a time.”

Dr. Hediye Nur Uygun · General Dentistry

For parents

Choosing a dentist for your child

Before you book, ask:

  • Who will see my child, and what training and experience do they have in treating children?
  • Is the clinic licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health?
  • Can I stay with my child during the visit?
  • How do you help children who are nervous about the dentist?
  • Do you offer fluoride varnish and fissure sealants?
  • What should I do if my child has toothache or knocks out a tooth outside opening hours?
  • If my child needs treatment you do not provide, such as braces, which orthodontist would you refer us to?

A clinic should explain any treatment before asking for your consent. Vita Smile is licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health. This page is reviewed by Dr. Hediye Nur Uygun, a general dentist whose areas of work include children's dentistry. You can meet our dentists or ask about your child's teeth in a free online consultation.

Questions

Children's dentistry: frequently asked questions

Can't find your answer? Our coordinators are happy to help on WhatsApp.

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At what age should a child first see a dentist?

When the first milk teeth appear, or before they are 12 months old [1][2]. Your child gets used to the dentist, and problems can be spotted early [1].

How often should children go to the dentist?

As often as your dentist advises [1]. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a check-up every six months, while your dentist can set a different interval based on your child's oral health [2].

What is the difference between a paediatric dentist and a general dentist?

In the United States, paediatric dentists complete two to three years of further training after dental school and treat only children [2]. General dentists also see children for check-ups, prevention and routine treatment. Ask any dentist about their experience with children.

Do baby teeth need fillings if they fall out anyway?

Often, yes. Baby teeth help children chew and speak, and they hold space for the adult teeth [2]. Losing them too early can cause problems for the adult teeth that follow [5]. Your dentist explains whether a filling, pulp treatment or extraction is the right choice for each tooth.

What is fluoride varnish, and how often does my child need it?

It is a varnish with high levels of fluoride, painted onto the teeth to strengthen the enamel [1]. From age 3, children should be offered it at least twice a year, and some children need it more often [1].

When should my child have an orthodontic check?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first check-up with an orthodontist no later than age 7, when children have a mix of baby and adult teeth [5]. If something looks wrong earlier, you do not need to wait [5]. If the dentist sees a problem with the bite or the way the teeth are coming through, your child may be referred to an orthodontist.

What our patients say

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Patient reviews from Google and Trustpilot

Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

I visited Vita Smile Dental Clinic for implants and a smile makeover, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Dr. Vildan and her team were warm, knowledgeable, and extremely detail-oriented. The clinic itself is spotless and modern, and they made sure I was comfortable every step of the way. They even helped with transportation and accommodation, which made the whole experience stress-free. My new smile looks amazing — I feel more confident than ever. If you're thinking about dental treatment in Turkey, Vita Smile is a fantastic choice. Thank you for everything!

Fuat D. August 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

First of all, the dentist is very reliable and professional. The clinic has a very friendly atmosphere, and both the service and approach to patients are of the highest standard – everything is handled professionally. The dentist is extremely professional and gentle in her work. She always asks if anything hurts and makes sure the patient feels comfortable during every visit. Special recognition also goes to the consultant Rafia, who always responds quickly to any questions or concerns. She is very helpful, kind, and always tries to find a solution and speak with patients with care and understanding. The clinic is very clean, and every patient is treated individually and with full attention. I wholeheartedly recommend this dental clinic.

Elwira K.
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

We were in a medical trip to Turkey, headed to Vita Smile. Everything went smooth -from airport to clinic and back home-. The procedure was seamless, as for me I regained trusts in myself now that I can smile again. Also lots of thanks to ms.Oana for everything.

Stephen Romania · April 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

The team and doctors are very professional, I am very pleased to have had my teeth whitened and cleaned, I recommend it to everyone. Thank you

Rumeysa Y.
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

I visited Vita smile for my tooth pain. Dr Vildan and all team was so helpfull. They gave me teeth cleaning for free as a present. I suggest it to all my friends. Thanks for all.

Mehmet F. August 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

Diş için geldim. Diş ile ilgili bütün sorunlarimi hallettiler ve çok güzel oldu çok ilgililer.

Oğuzhan F. August 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

yeni zirkonyum yaptırdım çok memnun kaldım, hekimin eli çok hafifti gerçekten. gülümsemek 🤩

June 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

Temiz ve rahat bir ortamda operasyon um yapildi.Doktorlara ilgilerinden dolayı teşekkür ederim. Yapılan işlemler beni çok mutlu ve özgüvenli hissettirdi. Tüm ekibe TESEKKUR ederim.

Ulas K. March 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

Almanya'daki bir tanıdığımız vaasitasi ile alakalı geldim 1 hafta içerisinde full ağız implant ve lamine tedavilerini yaptirdim doktor ekip tamamı ile kusursuz kesinlikle tavsiye ediyorum

Volkan S. March 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

Daha önce olan diş kaplamalarım inanınlmaz rahatsız ediyordu zirkonyum kaplama için arkadaşımın tavsiyesiyle gittim 3-4 gün gibi bir sürede eski kaplamalar sökülüp yeni ölçüler alındı provalar yapıldı ve yeni kaplamalar yapıldı çok doğal ve çok kullanımı rahat hiçbir sıkıntı yaşamadım tüm ekibe teşekür ederim.

Mine A.
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

"Gülüşümü tamamen değiştirdiler! Zirkonyum kaplamalarım o kadar doğal duruyor ki, kimse kaplama olduğunu anlamıyor. Renk uyumu ve diş etleriyle olan uyumu tek kelimeyle mükemmel. Estetik kaygısı olan herkese gözü kapalı öneririm."

Ali A.
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Sources

Studies and patient guides this page is based on.

  1. [1] Children's teeth — NHS (page last reviewed 30 June 2025) · nhs.uk
  2. [2] Frequently Asked Questions for parents — American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry · aapd.org
  3. [3] Marinho VC, Worthington HV, Walsh T, Clarkson JE. Fluoride varnishes for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2013 · doi.org
  4. [4] Ahovuo-Saloranta A, Forss H, Walsh T, et al. Pit and fissure sealants for preventing dental decay in permanent teeth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2017 · doi.org
  5. [5] Child Orthodontics — American Association of Orthodontists · aaoinfo.org
  6. [6] Kashbour W, Gupta P, Worthington HV, Boyers D. Pit and fissure sealants versus fluoride varnishes for preventing dental decay in the permanent teeth of children and adolescents. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020 · doi.org