Why is it important to look after your child’s teeth?
Looking after children's teeth is essential for their overall health and happiness. Healthy baby teeth not only help with eating and speaking but also guide adult teeth into their correct positions. Since baby teeth have thinner enamel, they are more prone to decay, which can lead to pain and infections if not properly cared for.
Establishing good oral hygiene habits early—such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and limiting sugary snacks—lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Regular dental check-ups are also key. They allow us to detect any issues early and help children become comfortable with visiting the dentist. As a trusted family friendly dentist in Godalming, we believe that prioritising children’s dental care from a young age can help prevent discomfort and keep their teeth strong and healthy as they grow.
Experienced, gentle care from our team
At Godalming Dental, we are proud to offer a welcoming and supportive environment for young patients.
Sarah Mack, one of our clinic owners, is renowned for her gentle approach to children’s dentistry. Before co-founding Godalming Dental, Sarah ran a specialist referral clinic for anxious and nervous children, accepting patients from across the Home Counties.
Both Sarah and Godalming Dental co-owner Laura are parents themselves, and they are passionate about ensuring that local families can access quality dental care in a kind and supportive setting. Our goal is to create healthy smiles for the whole family in a calm, stress-free atmosphere.
At Godalming Dental, we want to ensure your family’s first visit is welcoming and friendly
We understand that a child’s first visit to the dentist can feel daunting, which is why we go the extra mile to make it a positive and comfortable experience. Here’s how we ensure that every family’s first visit is welcoming and friendly:
Imaginative treatment – We turn dental treatment into an exciting adventure, with the dental chair transforming into a spaceship, plane, or helicopter!
Fun sunglasses – Children can choose from a selection of fun sunglasses to wear during treatment, making it a playful experience.
Educational models and child-friendly language – We use models to demonstrate treatments in a way children can understand and show them good brushing techniques.
After-school appointments available – For busy parents, we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate busy family life, including after-school appointments.
Sedation options for nervous children – If your child needs extra reassurance, we partner with sedation experts to provide a relaxing experience.
Custom-made stickers – We love to reward little smiles with fun stickers to celebrate their bravery and encourage a positive view of dental visits.
Free check-ups for children under 12 – We believe in reducing the financial barrier to ensure families can access private, high-quality dental care.
Frequently asked questions: your child’s dental care
We understand that you may have questions about your child's dental care. Below are some common questions parents often ask:
1. When will my child need braces?
We assess your child at every examination. They start developing their adult teeth around age 6, and by age 11, most children have the majority of their adult teeth. If needed, we can refer them to trusted orthodontists earlier to address any concerns and prevent bigger problems as your child grows.
2. When can my child use an electric toothbrush?
We love children to use electric toothbrushes! A small head with a sonic or rotating head is ideal. However, you should continue helping your child brush their teeth until they are around 12 years old to ensure they are brushing properly.
3. How much toothpaste should I be putting on my child’s toothbrush?
For children aged 3 and under, use a smear of toothpaste. For 1-2 years old, a grain of rice-sized amount, and for children aged 3-5 years, a small pea-sized amount. Children aged 3 and under should use toothpaste with 1000ppm sodium fluoride, and for children 4+ years, use toothpaste with 1450ppm sodium fluoride.
Book your child’s visit today, we can’t wait to see you!
If you're ready to book your child’s first dental appointment, or if you have more questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. At Godalming Dental, we’re dedicated to ensuring that your child has a positive, relaxed introduction to the dentist. Let’s create healthy smiles for the whole family!