Regular visits to the dentist are recommended (twice a year), at least from the age of three, when all of the milk teeth have come through. The child’s health record booklet has a special section reserved for observations about their dental health on each examination. Two pages of the booklet are specifically devoted to check-ups performed at six and twelve years of age. These must be filled in by a dentist.

The first appointments are important, as they allow the child to become accustomed to the dentist without needing to undergo any treatment. Stay with your child throughout the consultation to reassure them, and ask the dentist to explain what they are doing.

When you get home afterwards, ask them to draw a picture of their visit to the dentist.

From age twelve up, you may be able to leave them alone with the dentist during treatment.