Children should visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups’

Dr. Sakshi J Sawhney is the Founder and Owner of Smile Xpress Dental Clinic and the former owner of Mr Dentist Delhi. A compassionate and dedicated dental professional, she has been actively serving the community as a panel dentist for several NGOs, welfare homes, and prominent institutions, including Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha (Regd.) and Gurdwara Singh Sabha Sheikh Sarai Dental Dispensary. 

A proud mother, whose son, Angad Sawhney, is currently studying in Class I at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, she earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from ITS Dental College, Muradnagar, Ghaziabad in 2015 and further specialised by completing the Bioneer Implantologist Certification from the same institution in 2016.

Let’s know some of the important attributes about dental hygiene.

Do you think oral hygiene can be better integrated into the curriculum or daily routine? 

Oral hygiene can be effectively integrated into both the school curriculum and daily routines to build lifelong healthy habits in children. Schools can include age-appropriate lessons on brushing techniques, supported by fun activities like games, videos, and demonstrations. Programs like supervised brushing and fluoride application further reinforce learning. At home, daily routines should include brushing twice and gargling once a day, along with a balanced diet low in sugar. Parents and caregivers play a key role by modelling good oral hygiene practices.

What are the three oral hygiene habits every child should follow daily?

1. Brush Twice Daily: Use a kid-friendly toothpaste and brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes every morning and night to keep cavities away.

2. Daily Warm Water Gargle: Make it a routine to gargle with warm water after meals to help flush out food particles and maintain oral freshness.

3. Visit the Dentist Regularly: Schedule dental check-ups and professional cleanings every 6 months to catch any issues early and keep your teeth in top shape.

Dos and don’ts for maintaining dental health in growing children.

Dos: Eat a Balanced Diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that are rich in calcium and essential nutrients to build strong, healthy teeth. Limit Sugary Foods & Drinks: Reduce the intake of candies, sugary snacks, and carbonated drinks to prevent tooth decay. Regular Dental Visits: Schedule dental check-ups every 6 months to ensure early detection and prevention of dental issues.

 Don’ts: Skip Dental Appointments: Missing regular dental check-ups can lead to undetected problems that may worsen over time. Ignore Toothaches: If your child complains of tooth pain, seek dental advice promptly — pain can be a sign of cavities or infection.

How often should children ideally visit a dentist for check-ups?

Children should visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings, which help prevent cavities and other dental issues. For infants, it’s recommended to schedule their first dental visit within six months of their first tooth erupting. Starting regular dental visits at an early age not only promotes healthy oral habits but also helps children become comfortable with dental procedures, reducing fear and anxiety over time.