The first visit should ideally take place around the child’s first birthday, shortly after the first baby tooth erupts. Early visits are important to detect any developmental anomalies, familiarize the child with the new environment, prevent fear, and provide guidance on proper oral hygiene.
The child should not meet the dentist and dental staff for the first time when experiencing tooth pain, as this can lead to fear and anxiety. Regular check-ups should be scheduled at least every 6 months.
It is a preventive procedure in which fissures (pits and grooves—indentations in the teeth) are filled with composite materials or glass ionomer cements to prevent the development of cavities.
The procedure is performed on both baby and permanent teeth and involves applying a liquid or gel (varnish) containing a high concentration of fluoride. Fluoride plays a significant role in preventing cavities and halting early lesions. It also promotes the remineralization of hard tooth tissues. Fluoridation should ideally be done twice a year.