– Dr. Medha Krishnan is a Ghaziabad-based dentist, practising at the PGT Institute of Dental Studies and Technology

Dr. Medha Krishnan

My daughter is one year old. When should I take her for her first dentist visit?

— Garima Shetty, Bengaluru

A child’s first dental visit should take place between one to one-and-a-half years of age. Early consultation allows dental professionals to monitor tooth eruption, assess oral hygiene practices, and identify potential risk factors.

When dental visits begin early, children are also more likely to develop familiarity and comfort with clinical settings, reducing anxiety in later years. Preventive guidance offered during this stage often determines long-term oral health outcomes.

Research in paediatric dentistry indicates that early preventive visits significantly reduce the incidence of early childhood caries, reinforcing the importance of timely professional consultation.

My five-year-old daughter eats a lot of sweets. Should I worry about dental caries? Since her milk teeth will fall and permanent teeth will replace them, I presume that these dental cavities will not cause any damage.

— Lina Varghese, Trivandrum

A persistent misconception among parents is that milk teeth are temporary and therefore inconsequential. Clinical evidence, however, clearly demonstrates the opposite. Primary teeth play a critical role in chewing, speech development, facial growth, and providing space for permanent teeth.

Neglecting them can result in infections, pain, and premature tooth loss, which subsequently affects the alignment of adult teeth. When early decay is not treated promptly, it adversely impacts children’s nutritional intake and overall well-being.

Among the most frequently observed conditions in children is dental caries. In many cases, cavities are linked to inadequate tooth brushing habits and frequent consumption of chocolates, candies, and sugary snacks.

Sticky foods are particularly harmful because they stick to tooth surfaces, prolonging acid exposure. Carbonated drinks contribute both sugar and acidity, accelerating enamel erosion.

Studies suggest that tooth decay is one of the most prevalent childhood health conditions globally — often exceeding the prevalence of other chronic paediatric illnesses. Despite being largely preventable, it continues to affect a significant number of children.

Young children typically lack the motor coordination required for effective tooth brushing. Professional advice recommends that parents supervise and assist children with teeth brushing until they are six to seven years of age.

Even when children begin tooth brushing independently, monitoring ensures correct technique, adequate duration, and thorough cleaning of posterior teeth, where cavities commonly develop. Establishing a consistent tooth brushing and cleansing routine during these formative years shapes long-term oral hygiene habits.

How can I prevent my children from developing dental cavities due to unhealthy eating habits?

— Terese Preeti, Kolkata

Diet plays a key role in ensuring good oral health. Sticky foods and carbonated beverages are widely recognised as high-risk contributors to tooth decay. However, certain foods that seem healthy may also pose concerns if they are sticky or consumed frequently without rinsing and brushing afterward.

Frequent snacking, rather than the quantity of sugar, often increases cavity risk by maintaining an acidic oral environment for prolonged periods.

Habits such as thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, and persistent mouth breathing are developmentally typical in infancy. However, if these behaviours continue beyond three to four years of age, they adversely impact jaw alignment and tooth positioning.

Early observation and gentle intervention prevent long-term orthodontic complications. Therefore, parental monitoring of developmental milestones is an important aspect of preventive dental care.

What are some general tips for maintaining good oral health in children

— Deeksha T, Delhi

Preventive dentistry is central to managing childhood oral health. Fluoride strengthens enamel, enhancing resistance against acid attacks. Dental sealants provide a protective barrier over chewing surfaces, significantly reducing the likelihood of cavities. Regular check-ups enable early detection of dental caries before they progress.

When administered under professional supervision and in recommended quantities, fluoride and sealants are considered safe and effective for children. Research published in paediatric dental journals indicates that sealants reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80 percent, underscoring their preventive value.

Sustainable oral health is built on simple, consistent practices. The following habits are strongly recommended for children’s long-term dental well-being:

• Brush twice daily
• Rinse mouth with water after every meal
• Avoid sticky, sugary, and carbonated foods and beverages

When these routines are introduced early and reinforced consistently, children are more likely to maintain healthy teeth into adolescence and adulthood.

Childhood dental health is not merely about addressing cavities; it is about cultivating awareness, discipline, and preventive care from the earliest years. With informed guidance, timely intervention, and consistent habits, children are better positioned to grow with strong teeth and improved overall health.