Q&A

For most people, a visit every six months is sufficient. However, the frequency of dental appointments depends on each patient’s specific needs. For example, individuals with periodontal issues (gum disease) may require more frequent visits.

A child’s first dental visit should ideally take place as soon as their first teeth appear. However, some level of cooperation is needed for a full examination. Generally, we recommend starting around age 3, but more cooperative children can be seen earlier. If a problem is suspected, it’s important to consult a dentist right away, regardless of the child’s age.

During routine visits, the dentist assesses the alignment of teeth and jaws and can detect issues related to swallowing, speech, chewing, or aesthetics. If necessary, your child may be referred to a specialist (orthodontist or speech therapist).

These visits also provide guidance on dental hygiene, professional cleaning, fluoride application, and, if needed, the placement of sealants to protect permanent teeth from cavities.

Brushing: Brush your teeth gently, paying close attention to the gum line. Clean all tooth surfaces and use the tip of the brush to clean the front teeth, both top and bottom.

Flossing: Use about 45 cm of dental floss, wrapping it around your middle fingers. Use a clean section for each tooth. Form a “C” shape around each tooth and move the floss up and down two or three times from the base. Repeat this technique for each tooth.

Source: Canadian Dental Association