I’m a dentist – the seven mistakes parents make with their children’s teeth

In 2025, there were 33,978 cases of tooth extraction linked to tooth decay among children aged zero to 19, according to the Royal College of Surgeons of England. This figure marks an 11 percent rise compared to the previous year and accounts for 60.5 percent of all tooth removals. These numbers highlight a growing concern regarding dental health in young populations, with tooth decay emerging as the leading cause of hospital admissions for children aged five to nine. Access to NHS dentists has also become increasingly challenging, exacerbating the problem. Dr Neil Sikka, a London-based dentist and director of dentistry at Bupa Dental Care, shares insights into how he manages his own children's dental care and identifies common pitfalls that even informed parents might overlook. One prevalent misconception is the belief that baby teeth are unimportant since they eventually fall out. However, maintaining the health of these initial teeth is crucial. Baby teeth serve as placeholders for permanent ones, and their condition directly influences the development of the jaw and the alignment of adult teeth. Moreover, the enamel on primary teeth is still developing and does not fully harden until late adolescence, making them particularly vulnerable to decay. Another mistake parents often make is waiting until a problem arises before visiting a dentist. Early dental visits, ideally starting around age two, help familiarize children with the dental environment and reduce anxiety. Creating a positive association with dental care through imaginative play, such as likening the dental chair to a space ship or a fairground ride, can transform a potentially stressful experience into an enjoyable one. Parents should also avoid instilling fear around dental visits by refraining from using threatening language. Instead, they should present the dentist as a friendly figure who helps maintain oral health. Teeth brushing is another area where parents frequently fall short. Making brushing a routine rather than a chore is essential. Toddlers may initially resist brushing, but allowing them to chew on the bristles can provide some level of self-cleaning. Engaging children in the process by standing behind them and brushing alongside them, while encouraging them to observe the action in the mirror, fosters cooperation and learning. For older children, technology offers innovative solutions such as the Brush DJ app, which uses music to encourage thorough brushing sessions. Interactive tools like these can significantly enhance compliance and enjoyment during oral hygiene routines. Parents also tend to project their own fears onto their children, inadvertently creating a negative perception of dental care. By avoiding discussions about potential issues or expressing discomfort, they risk passing on unnecessary anxieties. Open communication and a positive approach are vital in shaping a child's attitude toward dental health. As awareness grows about the importance of preventive care, efforts to improve access to dental services remain critical. With increasing demand and limited availability, ensuring that families receive timely and effective dental treatment is essential for long-term oral health outcomes. Future strategies may focus on expanding dental resources and promoting community-based initiatives aimed at educating parents and children alike about proper dental practices.