Children’s Dentistry in London: First Visit Guide, Costs, and What to Expect

Tooth decay remains the leading reason young children are admitted to hospital in England, with a routine private check-up in London typically costing around £165. In 2024/2025 alone, 21,162 children aged five to nine required hospital treatment because of it. 

Behind these numbers is a simpler pattern dentists see every day: many children are reaching the dental chair far later than they should. For many parents, the biggest uncertainty is knowing (a) when that first visit should happen and (b) what to expect from it.

Let’s look at when your child should first visit a dentist, how to prepare them, what to expect during the appointment, and the typical costs of children’s dentistry in London.

When Should Your Child First Visit a Dentist?

According to the NHS, your child should see a dentist when their first baby tooth appears, or before their first birthday. It’s a quick, easy visit that helps them get comfortable with the dentist and makes future appointments easier.

More than 1-in-5 five-year-olds in England already have tooth decay. In many cases, the disease progresses without causing obvious symptoms until treatment becomes more complex. An early dental visit can spot small problems before they become bigger ones. Even a quick look inside your child’s mouth helps them get used to future check-ups.

Signs Your Child Should See a Dentist Sooner

Don’t wait until your child says their tooth hurts. By then, the damage may already be serious. Instead, visit a dentist soon if you see your child struggling with (a) toothache (b) white, yellow, brown, or black marks near the gums, (c) a knocked-out, broken or cracked tooth, (d) bleeding, red, or swollen gums, (e) bad breath that does not go away after brushing, and (f) trouble chewing, mouth breathing, frequent snoring, or refusing to eat.

How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Dental Visit

Present the visit in a calm and positive way so that it feels familiar, reassuring, and enjoyable for the child. This can help your child feel more comfortable with future dental visits.

You can tell your child that the dentist will count their teeth, look at them with a small mirror, and gently clean them. Explain that they’ll sit in a special chair, wear a bib, and may see a little water spray and a tiny straw that takes the water away. The dentist may also brush their teeth, clean between them, or paint a special coating (fluoride) on them to help keep them strong.

Even if your child cries, feels nervous, does not sit still during the appointment, or refuses to open their mouth, try not to worry. Paediatric dentists see this every day. If your child needs more time, the dentist may keep the visit short and gradually build their confidence over future appointments.

Where possible, schedule the appointment at a time when your child is usually well rested and comfortable. For many young children, this is often in the morning after breakfast and a nap, when they are more likely to cooperate during the visit. 

Avoid nap time or any time when they are usually tired or hungry. 

What to Expect During the First Visit

Your child’s first visit to the dentist is likely to last 15 to 30 minutes. You can expect the dentist to carry out an oral examination of your child’s teeth and teeth cleaning, if needed. 

Oral Examination

Your child gets a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues. Remember, even baby teeth are at risk of tooth decay. So, this is the most important part of the dental appointment.

Teeth Cleaning

If the dentist finds the need, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This involves flossing, polishing teeth and removing plaque, tartar, and stains. 

X-Rays (If Needed)

Your dentist can also examine your child’s jaw to see if they need bite correction. They may recommend X-rays to diagnose decay, depending on your child’s age. X-rays also help show if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be impacting an adult tooth. However, since baby teeth fall out, X-rays are rarely done. 

Oral Hygiene and Home Care Advice

Finally, the dentist will show you and your child correct ways to clean your baby’s teeth at home. This may include the number of times to brush, type and size of the toothbrush, and the quantity of toothpaste.

The dentist may also recommend the right fluoride toothpaste based on your child’s age and risk of tooth decay.

Some factors can affect your child’s dental health and development in the long-term. So, depending on your child’s age, you can also discuss with your dentist any issues around bottle feeding versus breastfeeding, thumb sucking, pacifier use, and family history. 

What Happens After the Visit

Most children can eat and drink normally after a routine check-up. If fluoride varnish is applied, the dentist may ask your child to avoid hard foods and hot drinks for a few hours. Follow any brushing or eating advice before leaving.

Children’s Dentistry Costs in London

Fees at private dental clinics in London vary by clinic. However, NHS dental care is free for patients under 18, and hence for children.

If you want shorter waiting times, longer appointments, easier access to specialists, and a wider range of services, you can go for private dental clinics. 

To get a better idea of the dental treatment cost for your child, visit our comprehensive guide for dental fees.

What Parents Should Remember

Tooth decay is causing more children in England to lose their teeth. But many cases can be prevented with early dental visits. Your child should see a dentist when the first tooth appears or before turning one. The first visit is simple and helps children feel comfortable. The dentist checks the teeth, cleans them if needed, and shares home care tips. NHS dental care is free for children. Private clinics usually offer faster appointments and more services.

Can You Take Your Toddler to the Dentist?

Yes. In fact, you should. Dentists recommend taking your child to the dentist when their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday. Early visits help check if the teeth are growing well. They also help your child get used to the dental clinic.

Choose a time when your child is well rested. Tell them they are going to meet a dentist who will count and check their teeth. Bring their favourite toy or comfort item. Stay calm and positive. During the visit, you can sit with your child if needed.

Is It Common for Young Children to Have Cavities?

Yes, it can happen. Cavities can develop if teeth are not cleaned well or if your child has sugary food and drinks often. The good news is that regular brushing, healthy eating, and dental check-ups can help prevent cavities.

What Is the Rule Of 7 in Children’s Dentistry?

The Rule of 7 means that every child should have their first orthodontic check-up by the age of 7. By this age, some first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in. This helps the dentist see if the teeth and jaws are growing in the right way. If there is a problem with the bite or jaw, it can often be found early and treated more easily.

At Specialist Dental Services, our consultant-led paediatric dentistry team provides gentle, preventive dental care for children from infancy through adolescence. If you’re looking for children’s dentistry in London, book a consultation with our team today.