Good dental habits formed in childhood last a lifetime. Yet dental disease remains one of the most common childhood health issues in India — largely because many parents are unsure when to start dental care, how to brush a child's teeth and when to make the first dental visit. This guide from Dr. Preethi at Sethu Dental Care covers everything you need to know about caring for your child's teeth from infancy through the teenage years.
When to Start Dental Care
Dental care starts before the first tooth even appears. You can gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding from birth. This removes bacteria and sugar and gets your baby accustomed to having their mouth cleaned.
When the first tooth appears — usually between 6 and 12 months — start brushing with a soft infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
When Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?
The general recommendation is within 6 months of the first tooth appearing, or by 12 months of age — whichever comes first. This early visit is not about treatment — it is about establishing a relationship with the dentist, checking development is on track and giving parents guidance on home care.
At Sethu Dental Care, we make first visits fun and relaxed. Dr. Preethi is specially trained in children's dentistry and knows how to make even the most nervous child feel at ease.
How to Brush a Child's Teeth
For children under 3: use a small smear of fluoride toothpaste (grain of rice size) and a soft infant toothbrush. Brush gently twice a day.
For children 3–6: increase to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Children this age enjoy brushing themselves, but parents should always supervise and do a second brush to ensure thorough cleaning.
For children 7 and above: most children can brush independently by age 7, but continue to supervise until you are confident they are doing it properly. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush for 2 minutes, twice a day.
The Truth About Baby Teeth
Many parents think baby teeth do not matter because they will fall out anyway. This is a common and costly misconception. Baby teeth serve important functions — they help children chew, speak clearly and hold space in the jaw for adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost early due to decay, the neighbouring teeth can shift, potentially causing crowding when adult teeth come through.
Untreated decay in baby teeth can also cause pain that affects a child's ability to eat, concentrate at school and sleep.
Diet and Its Impact on Children's Teeth
Sugar is the primary enemy of children's teeth. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acid that erodes enamel. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks — particularly between meals — makes a significant difference to cavity rates.
The timing of sugar consumption matters as much as the amount. Sipping a sugary drink slowly over an hour is far more damaging than consuming the same drink quickly. Encourage children to drink water between meals. After sweet treats, a glass of water or a piece of cheese can help neutralise the acid.
Dental Sealants: Extra Protection for Molars
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars). The grooves and pits of molars are common places for cavities to develop because they are hard to clean thoroughly. Sealants seal these grooves, dramatically reducing cavity risk.
Sealants are recommended for children as soon as their permanent molars come through — typically around age 6 and again around age 12. They are quick, painless and highly effective.
Dealing with Dental Anxiety in Children
Dental anxiety in children is common and usually stems from fear of the unknown. The best way to prevent dental anxiety is to start visits early, before any treatment is needed. A child who grows up going to the dentist for routine check-ups is far less likely to develop fear than a child whose first visit involves treatment for a painful tooth.
Use positive language around dental visits. Avoid words like "hurt", "pain" or "injection." Let the child bring a favourite toy. Praise them after every visit regardless of how it went. At Sethu Dental Care, we use a "tell-show-do" approach — explaining and demonstrating everything before doing it, so there are no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Children can start trying to brush their own teeth around age 2–3, but parents should supervise and assist until age 7–8 to ensure teeth are being cleaned properly.
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is common in children and often resolves on its own. However, if it is causing wear to the teeth or your child is complaining of jaw pain, it is worth mentioning to us during your next visit.
Children typically start losing baby teeth around age 6, starting with the front lower teeth. The process continues until around age 12–13 when the last baby teeth are lost.
Fluoride treatments (applied in the dental office) can significantly reduce cavity risk in children who are prone to decay. Dr. Preethi will assess whether your child would benefit from fluoride treatment during their check-up.
Ready to Book Your Appointment?
Consult Dr. Preethi at Sethu Dental Care, Madurai. Open 9AM–9PM all days including Sundays.