Many adults harbor deep-seated fears about visiting the dentist, often stemming from unpleasant childhood experiences.
As parents, we naturally want to ensure our children develop positive associations with dental care and maintain excellent oral hygiene habits from an early age.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pediatric dentistry in Singapore, from finding the best kids’ dental clinics to understanding when and how to start proper dental care for your little ones.
Locations: Outlets in Lucky Plaza and Woodleigh Mall
Essential Guide to Children’s Dental Hygiene
When Should Good Oral Hygiene Start?
Good oral hygiene begins at birth, not when the first tooth appears. Parents can gently wipe their baby’s gums with a clean washcloth or gauze after feedings.
Once the first tooth emerges, use a baby toothbrush and water to clean it. Starting this practice early helps children become accustomed to having their teeth brushed and establishes it as part of their daily routine.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush for Kids
Select a toothbrush that properly fits your child’s mouth—soft-bristled and easy to grip are key features.
Consider eco-friendly options, as conventional plastic toothbrushes contribute significantly to environmental waste.
In the US alone, over one billion toothbrushes end up in landfills annually, and because they’re made of polypropylene plastic and nylon, they never decompose.
When to Start Using Toothpaste
According to the Journal of the American Dental Association:
- Up to 2 years: No toothpaste needed; clean teeth with a baby toothbrush and water
- 2-3 years: Use a rice grain-sized smear of fluoride-containing toothpaste twice daily, discouraging swallowing
- 3+ years: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride-containing toothpaste
The fluoride in toothpaste helps prevent and even reverse tooth decay when used properly.
Choosing the Right Toothpaste
- Under 5 years: Use children’s toothpaste with fluoride concentration of 500-550 parts per million
- 6 years and older: Transition to toothpaste with fluoride concentration of 1000-1500 parts per million
Check the packaging for fluoride content, usually listed as “Sodium Fluoride” with the parts per million (PPM) noted in brackets.
The Importance of Flossing
Yes, children need to floss! As teeth grow closer together, brushing alone cannot clean between teeth effectively.
Your dentist can demonstrate the proper flossing technique for your child. For younger children, floss holders can be easier to manage than traditional floss.
First Dental Visit Timeline
Children should visit the dentist every six months starting from age one or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. While this may seem early, early visits allow dentists to identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems. These initial visits also help establish a positive relationship with dental care.
Choosing a Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric dentists specialize in children’s dental care and are trained to work effectively with young patients. They can quickly identify potential issues even during brief examinations. However, if your child feels comfortable with your family dentist, that arrangement can work well too. The most important factor is your child’s comfort level with the dental professional.
Preparing Your Child for Dental Visits
- Talk openly about the visit: Discuss what happens at the dentist in positive terms, emphasizing how dentists help keep teeth “shiny and sparkly.” Mention that they might watch movies during the appointment or receive a sticker or new toothbrush afterward.
- Schedule wisely: Book appointments when your child is well-rested—typically early morning or after their afternoon nap. Avoid times when they might be overtired.
- Manage your own anxiety: Children are perceptive and can sense your feelings about dental visits. Try not to project any personal dental fears.
- Consider specialized care: For anxious children or those with special needs, a pediatric dentist specifically trained to work with children may be the best option.
- Use books and media: Show children videos, books, or songs about dental visits. Recommendations include The Wiggles’ “Brush Your Teeth” song, Play School’s “Ch Ch Ch (The Toothbrush Song),” The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss, or Peppa Pig’s dental episode.
- Arrange peer support: If possible, let your child accompany a friend who enjoys dental visits to observe the positive experience.
- Establish good habits: Maintain a consistent brushing routine at home—twice daily brushing and daily flossing creates good habits that make dental visits more positive.
Common Dental Issues in Children
Damaged or Discolored Teeth
If your child falls and damages a tooth, see a dentist promptly even if it seems minor. The tooth may turn gray days after impact—this is common but warrants professional assessment. Early intervention can prevent further complications.
Related article: White Spots On Teeth: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding during sleep, known as bruxism, is relatively common in children. Causes include teeth misalignment, pain, hyperactivity, and stress. Most children outgrow this habit, but mention it to your dentist, who might recommend relaxation exercises before bedtime or a mouthguard for severe cases.
Are Dental X-rays Safe?
Modern dental X-rays are much safer than traditional methods, using up to 90% less radiation while providing clearer images. They’re essential for detecting problems invisible to the naked eye, like hidden infections or impacted teeth. During X-rays, your child will wear protective gear (lead apron and thyroid collar), and each X-ray takes just a fraction of a second.
Read more: Periodontists in Singapore: Everything You Need to Know
Why Children Need Regular Dental Visits
Development and Maintenance of Healthy Teeth
Children can be prone to poor oral hygiene and tooth decay for several reasons:
- Underdeveloped motor skills affect brushing technique and effectiveness
- Poor feeding habits, like overnight milk bottles, contribute to bacteria buildup
- Higher consumption of sugary foods and drinks
Importance of Primary (Baby) Teeth
While baby teeth eventually fall out, they serve crucial functions:
- The last baby teeth hold their positions until ages 12-13
- Premature loss can cause alignment problems and affect facial development
- Primary teeth are essential for proper eating, speech development, and facial appearance
- Healthy baby teeth promote better eating habits, supporting the development of healthy adult teeth
Recommended Visit Frequency by Age
Toddlers (0-3 years)
- Primary teeth emerge from front to back
- First visit by age 1 or when first tooth appears
Pre-schoolers (4-6 years)
- Permanent teeth begin pushing on primary teeth roots
- Primary teeth gradually become loose and fall out
- Regular checkups every 6 months
School-age children (7-12 years)
- Continued replacement of primary teeth with permanent teeth
- By ages 12-13, only permanent teeth remain
- Continued regular checkups every 6 months
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Common Dental Treatments for Children
Preventive Treatments
Fluoride Treatment
Strengthens the enamel layer of teeth and reduces tooth decay
Dental Sealants Protective coating painted on teeth to cover cavities and prevent food traps
Restorative Treatments
Dental Fillings
Restore teeth affected by cavities and strengthen tooth structure
Tooth Extractions
Removal of severely damaged or decayed teeth beyond repair
Stainless Steel Crowns
Used to reinforce weakened primary teeth for better biting and chewing function
Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns and Bridges In Singapore
Home Dental Care Tips by Age
For Children Under 7 Years
- Before teeth erupt: Clean baby’s mouth and gums with a washcloth or oral wipes
- When teeth begin to appear: Start brushing with a finger brush
- When molars erupt: Use a small, soft toothbrush with a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste (less than 500ppm)
- Parents should assist with brushing until the child develops sufficient motor skills
For Children 7 Years and Older
- Start with non-fluoridated toothpaste until age 7-8 unless the child has poor oral hygiene with multiple cavities
- Introduce flossing as gaps between teeth become smaller
- A floss holder can help children manage the technique
- Brush and floss twice daily under parental supervision
Special Considerations
Thumb Sucking
- Normal in early childhood, most children stop around age 3-4
- Persistent thumb sucking after age 4 can affect teeth alignment and jaw development
- Intervention becomes more critical once permanent teeth begin to erupt
Bottle Feeding and Breastfeeding
- All milk contains natural sugars that can cause decay if left in prolonged contact with teeth
- Avoid putting babies to bed with bottles or allowing night-long nursing
- Clean teeth with a damp cloth or toothbrush after night feeds
Top Kids’ Dental Clinics in Singapore
1. Family Dental Clinic
Family Dental Clinic takes special care when treating children aged 12 and below through their innovative Tooth Fairy Programme.
Children receive a dental health book to document their dental milestones and appointments, making each visit a memorable experience.
The clinic also provides emergency slots for accidents resulting in fractured teeth, ensuring immediate treatment when needed.
Locations: Multiple locations across Singapore
2. Kids Dental World
Located in the prestigious Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Kids Dental World specializes in teaching children and parents about addressing immediate dental issues while establishing essential routines for long-term dental health.
The clinic features engaging games in the waiting room to help ease pre-appointment anxiety. Their team works with children of all age groups, including those with special needs.
Location: #08-33, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, 38 Irrawaddy Road, Singapore 329563
3. Toofdoctor
With its playful name, Toofdoctor has been providing patient-focused dental care in Singapore since 2005.
Each treatment room features unique themes reflecting the dentists’ personalities, creating a welcoming environment that helps put nervous patients at ease.
The clinic operates multiple branches throughout Singapore for convenient access.
Locations: Multiple locations across Singapore
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4. Teeth @ Tiong Bahru
Situated in one of Singapore’s most family-friendly neighborhoods, Teeth @ Tiong Bahru offers top-notch oral healthcare for both children and adults.
The clinic utilizes modern technologies to develop innovative dental solutions, eliminating the need for uncomfortable traditional silicone impressions.
Location: #01-12, Boon Tiong Road, Block 11A, Singapore 161011
5. Petite Smiles
Embodying their heartwarming tagline, “A child with a smile will go the extra mile,” Petite Smiles specializes in pediatric dental care.
Their services range from standard procedures like extraction and restoration to handling dental emergencies and treating patients with additional needs.
Parents can also arrange educational sessions covering dietary habits, dental hygiene, and behavioral management strategies for dental visits.
Location: 10 Sinaran Drive #11-18 Novena Medical Center Singapore 307506
6. An Dental
Dr. Nicole at An Dental takes a comprehensive approach to children’s dental health, addressing the root cause of problems while providing guidance on proper dental care and developmental expectations.
The practice offers acclimatization services for babies under two years old.
As a special touch, Dr. Nicole, who is also a balloon artist, often creates personalized balloon art for young patients to take home.
Location: #03-06/07, International Building, 360 Orchard Road, Singapore 238869
7. Allsmiles Dental Care
Allsmiles lives up to its name by providing gentle and comfortable dental care for children.
Their approach begins with friendly conversation to establish rapport and help children feel at ease.
The Punggol outlet features a dedicated playing area and picture books to further distract and relax anxious young patients.
Locations: Multiple clinics in Jurong West, Queenstown, Commonwealth, Sengkang, and other areas
8. Azure Dental
Azure Dental offers a child-friendly environment with welcoming staff and facilities designed specifically for young patients. Parents can enjoy the clinic’s famous coffee while waiting for their children’s appointments. The clinic also prides itself on offering wallet-friendly services without compromising on quality.
Location: 781 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269759
9. Atria-City Dental Group
Established in 1994, this dental group boasts a team extensively trained in procedures specific to children and teenagers.
The clinic creates a warm, caring atmosphere through toys, books, and videos. Children receive booster cushions for comfort during treatment, and the clinic’s state-of-the-art facilities ensure top-quality care.
Location: #08-08, Ngee Ann City (Tower B), 391B Orchard Road, Singapore 238874
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10. The Kids Dentist
Founded by Dr. Rashid Tahir with the motto “fun dentistry for kids,” this clinic truly feels like an indoor playground with video games, toys, a foosball table, and even a playhouse.
Operating with Singapore’s largest pediatric dental team, they specialize in treating infants, adolescents, children with special needs, and those with complex medical conditions.
Location: #13-06, Camden Medical Centre, 1 Orchard Boulevard, Singapore 248649
11. Gentle Dental Group
Gentle Dental excels in pediatric dentistry with a team of friendly dentists and nurses. The cozy waiting areas feature toys and children’s books, while overhead TVs playing cartoons provide distraction during treatment.
The group’s dental superhero mascot, Captain Gentle, adds to the fun experience, making it a favorite among both local and expatriate families.
Locations: Clinics in Bukit Timah, River Valley, and Tanjong Katong
12. Sunshine Dental
Serving families in northern Singapore, Sunshine Dental in Woodlands utilizes cutting-edge technology for comprehensive dental care.
New patients receive a thorough oral examination and diagnosis for just $50. The clinic’s playroom offers a safe space for children to relax before appointments.
Locations: Outlets at Woodlands and Beach Road
13. Nuffield Dental
Founded in 2014, Nuffield Dental functions as a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental center offering services from general to cosmetic dentistry.
They provide around-the-clock emergency assistance, and their Serangoon Gardens clinic features a designated play zone for children.
Locations: Multiple locations across Singapore
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14. T32 Dental
T32’s Camden center features specially designed treatment rooms with Disney character murals to appeal to children.
Ceiling TV monitors allow young patients to watch cartoons during treatment, transforming what could be a stressful experience into an entertaining one.
Locations: Various locations islandwide
15. Raintree Dental
At Raintree Dental, children enjoy in-chair and in-ceiling entertainment with a selection of animated movies during treatment. The clinic also offers comprehensive orthodontic services for older children.
Location: 107 East Coast Rd, Singapore 428799
16. Dental on the Bay
Dental on the Bay specializes in making dental visits enjoyable for children, particularly first-timers. Their services include preventive care, restorative treatments like tooth-colored fillings and crowns, and emergency dental care for acute issues.
Locations: Outlets in Vivocity and CitiLink Mall
17. My Little Teeth
My Little Teeth focuses on building trust from the first visit, ensuring children don’t develop dental anxiety.
They provide personalized advice tailored to each child’s dental condition, behavior, and personality, and actively involve parents in the decision-making process. The clinic is also Baby Bonus-approved.
FAQs About Children’s Dental Care
Q: When should I take my child for their first dental checkup?
A: The Singapore Pediatric Dentistry Society recommends bringing children for their first dental visit within their first year of life or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first.
Q: How often should my child visit the dentist?
A: After the initial visit, children should see the dentist every six months for regular checkups and preventive care, unless your dentist recommends a different schedule based on your child’s specific needs.
Q: Is there any government subsidy available for my child’s dental treatment?
A: Parents may use their child’s Baby Bonus or Child Development Account (CDA) to offset dental treatment costs at many clinics in Singapore.
Q: How can I help my child overcome fear of the dentist?
A: Prepare your child by reading age-appropriate books about dental visits, role-playing at home, using positive language, and avoiding terms like “pain” or “scared.”
Choose a pediatric dentist experienced in working with anxious children and consider bringing your child’s favorite toy or comfort item to the appointment.
Q: Are baby teeth really important if they’re going to fall out anyway?
A: Yes, baby teeth are extremely important! They hold space for permanent teeth, aid in proper speech development, support healthy eating habits, and contribute to facial development.
Premature loss of baby teeth can lead to alignment issues with permanent teeth.
Q: What should I do if my child damages a tooth in an accident?
A: Seek dental care immediately. Many dental clinics offer emergency appointments for such situations.
Even if the damage seems minor, professional assessment can prevent complications and address pain or discomfort.
Q: At what age should my child start using fluoride toothpaste?
A: Children can start using a rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste (500-550ppm) at age 2-3, progressing to a pea-sized amount after age 3. Before age 2, brushing with water is sufficient.
Q: How do I know if my child needs orthodontic treatment?
A: Signs that might indicate the need for orthodontic evaluation include difficulty chewing or biting, early or late loss of baby teeth, mouth breathing, thumb sucking after age 5, crowded or misaligned teeth, and jaws that shift or make sounds.
Your dentist can provide guidance on whether and when orthodontic consultation is appropriate.
Q: What foods should my child avoid to maintain dental health?
A: Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, including candies, sodas, fruit juices, and sticky snacks.
Encourage whole foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, and plenty of water. In Singapore, all drinks must display Nutri-Grade labels (A-D), with “A” being the healthiest choice.
Q: Is it normal for my child to grind their teeth during sleep?
A: Yes, teeth grinding (bruxism) is relatively common in children and often resolves on its own as they grow.
However, you should mention it to your dentist, who can monitor for potential complications and suggest interventions if necessary.
Q: What should I do if my child refuses to brush their teeth?
A: Make tooth brushing fun by using a toothbrush with their favorite character, playing a special “brushing song,” turning it into a game, or brushing your teeth alongside them.
Establish a consistent routine and offer non-food rewards for cooperation.
Q: Are dental X-rays safe for children?
A: Modern dental X-rays use minimal radiation and are considered safe for children when appropriate protective measures are taken.
Dentists use lead aprons and thyroid collars to protect your child, and digital X-rays reduce radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional methods.
Q: My child’s baby tooth is loose but the permanent tooth is already coming in behind it. What should I do?
A: This situation is common and often resolves naturally as the baby tooth falls out. However, if the baby tooth doesn’t loosen quickly or seems to be affecting the permanent tooth’s alignment, consult your dentist for guidance.
Q: Can thumb sucking or pacifier use damage my child’s teeth?
A: Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use beyond age 4 can affect tooth alignment and jaw development.
If your child continues these habits after permanent teeth begin to emerge, discuss intervention strategies with your dentist.
What to Expect During Your Child’s First Dental Visit
- A friendly greeting: The dentist will personally greet your child in the waiting room and invite them into a colorful, child-friendly treatment room.
- Getting acquainted: The dentist will speak with your child to establish rapport while discussing any concerns you might have.
- Gentle introduction: Your child will be gradually introduced to the dental chair and instruments to build comfort and familiarity.
- Following the dentist’s lead: Allow the dentist to guide the interaction so your child can feel engaged and involved. Too many adults talking simultaneously might overwhelm your child.
- Appropriate pacing: Every child is different—some may complete a full examination and cleaning on their first visit, while others might only manage a brief introduction. The dentist will assess your child’s comfort level and adjust accordingly.
- Positive reinforcement: Your child will receive praise and often a small gift for their bravery, reinforcing the positive experience.
Creating positive dental experiences early in life sets the foundation for lifelong oral health.
By choosing the right pediatric dentist and establishing good home care routines, you can help your child develop healthy dental habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.