Children's Dentistry and Childsmile at Huntly Dental Practice
We completely understand that visiting the dentist is not always the most pleasant exciting experience of all, but our team will make sure you and your family are comfortable at our practice and reassure you that you are in safe and reliable hands.
Our dental practice is part of the Childsmile programme, which was set up to improve oral health in children throughout Scotland. Our Childsmile Nurse, Alison Paterson, comes into our practice every Monday to teach children about good oral health, healthy diet, and applies fluoride varnish to their teeth, which helps to prevent tooth decay.
This is free for children under the NHS twice a year and participating in this programme is highly recommended by our dentists.
The programme has been highly successful in improving children’s oral health in Scotland. Since its launch in 2001, there has been a significant reduction in tooth decay among children in Scotland.
Fluoride varnishing
Fluoride is a mineral that aids in the prevention of tooth decay. It’s present in toothpaste and fluoride varnish. Fluoride varnish, on the other hand, is a pale yellow gel that is applied to children’s teeth using a gentle brush. The varnish hardens quickly and has a pleasant taste and scent.
Fluoride varnish is highly efficient at reducing tooth decay when applied twice a year, according to research. Fluoride varnish should be applied to all children at least twice a year.
Preventing Dental Phobia
It is advisable for all children under the age of 18 to attend a Childsmile appointment. This programme provides oral health advice and enables them to become familiar with the sounds, sensations, and odours of dental surgery at an early age, which can help prevent dental anxiety in the future.
Children below the age of 2 should be seen to receive guidance on teething, drinking from cups, dietary advice, and to obtain tips on brushing. However, they do not receive fluoride varnish.
We are confident that by attending Childsmile, children can cultivate a positive rapport with dental practices and appreciate that visiting the dentist is not something to dread.
