Paediatric dental FAQs

At our Bristol-based paediatric dental clinic, we understand that parents often have questions about their child’s dental health, from the first baby tooth to teenage orthodontic care. Whether you're looking for guidance on your child’s first visit or need support with dental anxiety, we've answered some of the most common questions below to help you feel informed and confident.

If you don’t see your question here, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team—we’re always happy to help.

Infants (0–2 years)

When should my child first visit?

The NHS and British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommend booking your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early visits help detect problems early and get your child comfortable with dental care.

How do I clean my baby’s teeth?

Use a soft baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (at least 1000ppm). Brush twice a day, especially before bedtime.

Is thumb-sucking harmful for

my baby’s teeth?

Thumb-sucking is normal under age 3, but prolonged habits past age 4–5 can affect bite alignment. We can assess your child and offer advice.

Should I worry if my baby hasn’t

got any teeth yet?

Teething usually begins around 6 months, but it can vary. If your child has no teeth by 18 months, schedule a dental check-up for peace of mind.

Toddlers & Preschoolers (3–5 years)

Do you offer dental sealants for kids in Bristol?

Yes. We recommend fissure sealants to protect permanent molars from cavities. The procedure is quick, non-invasive, and highly effective.

How do I know if my child needs braces?

Common signs include crowding, misaligned bites, or prolonged thumb sucking. We offer early orthodontic assessments in our Bristol clinic to identify potential issues.

Can my child get tooth decay even if they brush well?

Yes. Brushing helps, but decay can still happen due to diet, enamel issues, or poor technique. At our Bristol clinic, we offer plaque disclosing, hygiene coaching, and preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants.

Are mouthguards necessary for sports?

Yes. A custom-fitted sports mouthguard protects your child’s teeth from injury during football, rugby, hockey, and more. We offer durable, comfortable mouthguards in Bristol for active kids.

Preteens & Teens (11–17 years)

What dental care do teenagers need?

Yes. We recommend fissure sealants to protect permanent molars from cavities. The procedure is quick, non-invasive, and highly effective.

Can my teen whiten their teeth?

In the UK, teeth whitening for anyone under 18 is restricted by law unless it’s being done for clinical reasons (such as treating discolouration from trauma or enamel defects) and under the supervision of a dental professional. Over-the-counter whitening kits and online products are not recommended for teens, as they can damage enamel and irritate gums.

What dental issues affect teenagers most?

Common concerns include cavities, gum disease, orthodontic needs, and bad breath. Regular cleanings and guidance from a teen-friendly dentist are essential.

Are energy drinks and fizzy drinks harmful?

Yes. These drinks are highly acidic and sugary, contributing to enamel erosion and decay. Encourage water and milk as healthier alternatives.

Is it safe to bring my medically vulnerable child to your clinic?

Yes. We follow strict infection control protocols and can make reasonable adjustments for children with medical conditions or additional needs. Please let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly.

What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?

Keep calm. Rinse the tooth gently (don’t scrub it), hold it by the crown (not the root), and try to place it back in the socket if possible. If not, store it in milk and call our clinic immediately. Time is critical — ideally, see us within 60 minutes.

Do you offer sedation for nervous children?

Yes. For highly anxious or sensitive children, we offer inhalation sedation (happy air) or referrals for treatment under general anaesthesia. Our Bristol paediatric team will explain all options and ensure your child is calm and safe.

What food and drinks should my child avoid to protect their teeth?

Avoid sugary snacks, fizzy drinks, and sticky sweets. Offer water, cheese, and crunchy veg instead. We provide full dietary advice tailored to your child during their visit to our Bristol practice.

What if a baby tooth is knocked out?

If your child knocks out a baby tooth (also called a primary tooth), do not try to reinsert it. Unlike adult teeth, baby teeth are not re-implanted, as doing so could damage the developing permanent tooth underneath. At our Bristol children’s dental clinic, we offer same-day emergency care and will guide you through what to expect next—whether it's monitoring, space maintenance, or further treatment.

Primary School Children (6–10 years)

Are dental X-rays safe for kids?

Yes, modern dental X-rays use very low radiation and are safe. They're essential for spotting hidden problems and ensuring healthy tooth development.

How do I know if my child needs braces?

Common signs include crowding, misaligned bites, or prolonged thumb sucking. We offer early orthodontic assessments in our Bristol clinic to identify potential issues.

When do kids start losing baby teeth?

Most children lose their first baby tooth around age 6. Regular visits to your paediatric dentist ensure everything is developing normally between the ages of 6 and 7

My child grinds their teeth. Is this normal?

Yes, teeth grinding (also called bruxism) is fairly common in children, especially during sleep. Many children go through phases of grinding their teeth, particularly between the ages of 3 and 10. In most cases, it’s not serious and they outgrow it without any treatment. We offer gentle assessments and custom night guards if needed, helping protect your child’s smile while they sleep. Contact our Bristol children’s dental clinic if you’re concerned about bruxism or notice any unusual symptoms.

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Emergency dental care

When dental emergencies happen, every minute matters. At our dedicated paediatric dental clinic in Bristol, we understand how stressful it can be when your child is in pain or has suffered a dental injury. That’s why we offer compassionate, same-day emergency dental care tailored specifically for children and teens.

Whether it’s a toothache, dental trauma, swelling, or a knocked-out tooth, our experienced team provides prompt, gentle treatment in a calm, child-friendly setting. We’re fully equipped to handle a wide range of urgent dental issues in children — from toddlers to teenagers.

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