In New Zealand, we advise taking your child to an oral care provider six months after their first tooth appears, or when they turn two years’ old, depending on which comes first. The oral care provider will advise you on how to care for your child’s early teeth, including whether or not to use pacifiers, how to teach your child to brush correctly, and what to look out for in terms of potential problems. Contact the New Zealand Community Oral Health Service or Plunket to enrol your child and book the first appointment before your child is born.
Dental care starts before your baby is born
Dental decay begins as soon as that first tooth appears. Even breast milk or putting your baby to sleep with a bottle can cause decay. So, it’s important to enrol your child with the New Zealand Community Oral Health Service [0800 TALK TEETH (0800 825 583)] before birth, or Plunket [0800 184 803] once your child is 15 months old. Book your first appointment at the same time.
Why is it important to have dental care appointments as early as possible?
- Introducing your child to the dental clinic environment in a positive way will mitigate any fear they may have.
- An early introduction without any pain will encourage your child to return.
- Regular visits, and the better oral care they apply at home, the less likely it is that your child will develop cavities.
- Any potential dental problems are better caught and treated as early as possible.
What age can my child be to take advantage of the free dental care?
- If your child is between 0 to the last year of intermediate school, Year 8, dental care is freely provided by dental therapists in a school and by the school dental nurse, or in a community dental clinic setting.
- Between Year 9 and the age of 18, dental care is provided for free by the government, even if your child isn’t at school. Team Dental cares for the health of children between 13 and 18 under this program.
- After your child turns 18, they will need to see a private dentist such as Team Dental. Contact us to find a branch near you.
Where and what dental care is provided?
Here in New Zealand, free routine dental care, as well as oral health education is provided for free by dental therapists in schools or community clinics. The dental care that is provided includes:
For Babies
- Oral health check
- Application of fluoride varnish
- Information on how to clean your baby’s teeth and keep them healthy
For Pre-Schoolers
- As above
- For 2-year-olds – application of fissure sealant
- For 3-year-olds – X-rays for early decay detection
For School Children
- As above
- Cleaning away plaque
- Extractions
- Fillings
- Local anaesthetics
- Root canal treatment
- Professional cleaning
- Referrals if the need arises
- Stainless steel crowns
It’s important to note that orthodontic care and tooth whitening isn’t provided for free for children under the age of 18. However, the cost of dental care needed because of an accident is covered by ACC, the Accident Compensation Corporation.
What to expect at the first appointment
- A short, relaxed appointment with a brief checkup while the child sits on your lap. For the most part, the dental provider’s rooms are decorated to be bright and cheerful environments.
- Advice on home dental care for your child, diet, and brushing.
- Scheduling the next appointment.
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be scary for children or adults. Are you afraid of the dentist? How could you overcome this fear and not pass it on to your child?
If you have any questions about your child’s teeth and how best to care for them, contact us on 0508 TEAM DENTAL and make an appointment today to discuss this in more detail.
FAQs:
Q1: When should I book my child’s first dental appointment?
You should take your child to a dental care provider either six months after their first tooth appears or by their second birthday, whichever comes first. You can enrol your child with the New Zealand Community Oral Health Service before birth, or with Plunket once they’re 15 months old, to schedule that first visit early.
Q2: What happens during my child’s first dental visit?
The first appointment is usually short and relaxed. Your child will have a simple checkup while sitting on your lap, and the dental provider will offer advice on brushing, diet, and caring for your child’s teeth at home. The goal is to make the visit a positive experience and to set up regular dental care early.