Your child’s dental appointment: What to expect

We understand that children can feel anxious about visiting the dentist. Struggling to relax when receiving any treatments is common for younger patients, with some even experiencing terrible fear of dental work.

That’s why we’ve created a welcoming and supportive space to put your little one at ease, with friendly, warm staff who are experienced in paediatric dentistry.

Our check-ups are always aimed at preventing issues before they start. After helping your child become acquainted with the room and equipment, we'll take a look in your child's mouth and gently examine their teeth and gums, checking how their teeth are developing and looking for any signs of tooth decay.

We’ll offer advice on tooth brushing, diet, and fluoride toothpaste, and may suggest a fluoride varnish application - your child can even choose the flavour!

We welcome questions throughout, and together, we'll plan for future appointments to keep your child’s dental health on track. Younger children will receive a sticker - and they might also go home with a toothbrush timer, keyring, tooth fairy pot, or other fun treats to reward their bravery and make their visit even more memorable!

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Dental hygienist at Foxley Lane Dental in Purley showing children’s toothbrushes and oral care products, helping families across Croydon, Wallington, Coulsdon and surrounding areas prevent tooth decay.

Preventing tooth decay in children

Our focus is always your child’s long-term dental health, helping to prevent tooth decay through:

Routine check-ups
Preventive treatments like fluoride varnish
Strong environmental and patient care
Education around brushing and fluoride toothpaste
Dietary advice, including sugar-free medicines

We support children through the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth, offering the care and guidance they need as they grow.

Our team provides expert advice on issues like overcrowding, overbites, and whether orthodontic treatment may be needed.

Whether we’re calming nerves or building confidence, our gentle, child-focused approach always puts kids first.

Frequently asked questions

When should I bring my child to the dentist for their first visit?
Bring your baby as soon as their first tooth appears! This is usually around 6 months, but can vary greatly depending on your baby. Early dental care helps us monitor children’s teeth, encourage good tooth brushing habits, and prevent decay right from the start. Visiting early also helps them feel more confident and comfortable with the environment, so they feel more relaxed during future visits, and also means that our team can offer age-appropriate dental health tips to encourage thorough brushing and healthy habits for life.
Is children’s dental care free on the NHS?
Yes, dental care is free for children under 18, and under 19 if they’re in full-time education. This includes check-ups, fluoride varnish, fillings, and other essential treatments to support lifelong oral health. We are accepting new children patients and are proud to be one of the local dental practices in the Purley and Croydon area trusted for providing quality dental services that instantly make kids feel safe and confident.
What if my child is scared of the dentist?
From the start, our calm and reassuring team warmly welcomes kids who are struggling, empowering them to feel confident and in control. Getting to know their dentist in a friendly environment helps build trust over time. Parents can bring a favourite toy too, which can help build their child’s confidence. Many little ones find dental visits daunting, and a small number have a terrible fear of dental work and needles. Our team are experts at making younger visitors feel at ease and managing any pain.
Can we book as a family?
Absolutely! We offer routine and referral care for the whole family, so parents/guardians and children can be seen together. Many families say this approach instantly makes them feel at ease and means one convenient appointment to answer any questions for the whole family. We also offer weekend and evening appointments to fit around busy schedules, and make sure every age group feels cared for by our friendly practice team.

How can I help my child prevent tooth decay at home?
Prevention is key in kids' dental care, helping avoid tooth decay and more serious treatments they may need, like tooth extractions. We recommend that an adult supervises brushing with an age-appropriate toothbrush until your little one is confident, paying special attention to back teeth, along with choosing sugar-free medicines whenever possible. Kids under three should use a smear of fluoride toothpaste, while those aged three and over should use a pea-sized amount, and continue with a pea-sized amount as they grow and learn to brush independently. It's important to brush using circular movements and make sure no food particles are left behind after meals. Your dentist will guide you through all of this during your visit to our practice, and answer any questions you have.
What is fluoride toothpaste, and should my child be using it?
Yes, fluoride toothpaste is important for protecting your child’s own teeth against tooth decay. It helps to strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to acids from foods and drinks. We recommend a fluoride toothpaste containing at least 1000ppm fluoride for children under three, and 1350 to 1500ppm for children over three. Don’t forget, children under three only need a smear, and older children should use a pea-sized amount, appropriate for their age.
Why do dentists advise against dried fruit as a snack?
Although it seems like a healthy option, snacks such as raisins can stick to teeth and lead to plaque build-up, increasing the risk of dental decay. Dentists often recommend choosing fresh fruit instead and keeping dried versions to mealtimes if offered. Encouraging regular tooth brushing and rinsing with water afterwards can also help reduce the risk to your child’s teeth. Limiting sugar and being mindful of sticky snacks and sugary drinks is one of the best ways to avoid trips to the dentist for fillings.
Is sedation ever used for children’s dental treatment?
Sedation is rarely needed for children, but in certain cases such as a very anxious patient or complex treatment, it may be recommended. At our practice, we take a gentle, staged approach to treatment, and sedation would only be discussed after all other options are explored. If your child is nervous, your dentist will work closely with you to advise on the best support options to ensure they feel safe every step of the way.