At our dental practice, we offer a comprehensive children's and youth program. We believe that building a trusting relationship with your child from the beginning can be helpful for future treatments. We recommend scheduling two appointments per year starting from the eruption of your child's first milk tooth. This way, we can help maintain a healthy mouth, prevent cavities, and introduce your child to the dentist in a playful way.
A significant portion of dental costs for children up to 18 years old is covered by the basic health insurance plan in the Netherlands, and the personal deductible does not apply.
More than 2 out of 3 children in the Netherlands have at least one cavity in their teeth before their 18th birthday, which is almost always preventable with good oral care. So, how can you keep your child's mouth healthy?
Firstly, it's important to teach your child to brush their teeth from a young age. Start brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first milk teeth erupt. Help your child brush their teeth until they can brush independently, usually around the age of 10.
In addition, a healthy diet is crucial. Limit sugar intake and provide your child with healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and cheese. Limit the number of meals and snacks to a maximum of seven per day, including main meals.
Regular dental check-ups are also essential to prevent cavities and detect any dental problems early on. As previously mentioned, a significant portion of dental costs for children up to 18 years old is covered by the basic health insurance plan, so make sure to schedule regular appointments for check-ups and preventive treatments.
Lastly, motivate and reward your child for good brushing habits and healthy eating habits. This encourages good oral hygiene practices and helps your child develop healthy habits for life.
