Children's dentistry Shepshed
Gentle care for growing smiles
We welcome children of all ages – from their very first visit right through to their teenage years. Whether it is a quick check-up or help building good habits, we are here to support healthy smiles as they grow.
When should a child first see a dentist
We recommend bringing children in by the age of 1, or when their first teeth appear. Early visits help them get used to the sights and sounds of the dental practice – and they give us a chance to check everything is developing as it should.
What happens at a child’s appointment
That depends on their age and needs, but we keep things simple and positive:
A gentle check of the teeth, gums and bite
Advice on brushing and habits like thumb sucking or dummy use
Diet tips and fluoride advice
Space to ask questions (parents and children!)
Calm, kind & never rushed
Our focus is prevention
Most dental issues are preventable – especially with children. That is why we focus on:
• Regular check-ups
• Fluoride applications to strengthen enamel
• Fissure sealants to protect back teeth (if needed)
• Building good brushing habits from the start
We will also spot early signs of crowding or bite issues and refer for orthodontic assessment if needed.
Tips for parents
- Bring younger children along to your own check-ups – it helps them get used to the setting
- Let them sit in the chair, press the buttons, or watch a sibling
- Avoid calling it a “scary” or “painful” visit – we will keep things gentle
- Do not worry if they are nervous – we are used to it, and we will take it at their pace
How to make dental visits fun for kids
We believe dental visits should be a positive experience for children, so we encourage parents to get involved in making it fun! Here are a few simple ways to prepare your child:
- Talk about it positively: Instead of focusing on the dentist’s tools, talk about the visit as a way to keep their smile healthy and strong.
- Use fun language: Our team uses friendly terms like “tickling your teeth” and “giving your teeth a check-up” to keep things light.
- Bring along a comfort item: If your child has a favourite toy or blanket, they are welcome to bring it along for comfort.
- Let them explore: Younger children can sit on your lap or have a go at holding the mirror and watching as we examine their teeth.
Building healthy habits early
We will show them how to brush properly – and make it part of their daily routine.
Simple advice on what helps (and what does not) when it comes to snacks and drinks.
We will keep an eye on how their smile is developing and let you know what to expect next.
The more familiar dental visits feel, the more relaxed children become over time.
We are here to help children build habits that last a lifetime
You might be wondering...
At what age should I bring my child to the dentist?
We recommend bringing your child as soon as their first teeth come through – usually around six months old. These early visits help your child get used to the sights and sounds of the dental practice, and we can keep an eye on how their teeth are developing.
My child is nervous – how do you help children feel more relaxed?
We take things at your child’s pace. There is no rush. We will use simple language, show them the tools we are using, and explain what is happening in a calm, friendly way. Some children just sit in the chair and have a chat the first time – and that is completely fine.
What if my child refuses to open their mouth?
This happens more often than you would think, especially with little ones. We never force anything. If your child is not ready, that is okay. We can have a chat, let them explore the room, or try again another day. Building trust takes time, and we are happy to do that step by step.
How can I help my child avoid fillings?
The main things are brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, keeping an eye on sugary snacks and drinks, and bringing them to see us regularly. We can also apply a special protective varnish to help strengthen their teeth and lower the risk of decay.
What if my child does not qualify for NHS orthodontic care?
We plan to offer fixed orthodontic treatment for children who may not qualify for NHS braces — giving families access to affordable, high-quality care without the long waiting lists or strict eligibility criteria often associated with NHS treatment. Contact us for more details,
