Children's Dentistry in Larkfield, Kent
Getting children off to the right start with their dental health is one of the most valuable things a parent can do. We love seeing our younger patients and work hard to make every visit relaxed, friendly, and fun.
Starting off right
Dental care for children at every stage
Whether you're bringing your toddler for their very first check-up or your teenager needs treatment before heading off to university, we're here for your child at every stage of their dental development. Our team is experienced in working with children of all ages — from the slightly nervous to those who simply bounce in ready to go.
We believe in education as much as treatment. We'll always take the time to explain things to children in language they can understand, show them what we're doing, and involve them in their own oral health care — because children who understand why they're cleaning their teeth are far more likely to do it well.
See what we provide →
Our children's dental services
Treatments for children and teenagers
We provide the following treatments for children and teenagers at our Larkfield practice. Each service has its own page with full details.
Check-ups
Regular examinations to monitor tooth development, detect problems early, and keep young smiles healthy.
Learn more → 02Fillings
Treating tooth decay in baby and adult teeth with tooth-coloured fillings.
Learn more → 03Extractions
Careful removal of baby teeth or damaged teeth that need to come out.
Learn more → 04Nightguards & Sports guards
Custom-made protection for children who grind their teeth or play contact sports.
Learn more → 05Orthodontic Referrals
Assessing when and where to refer children for specialist orthodontic assessment.
Learn more →
First visits
When should children first visit the dentist?
- ✓ We recommend bringing your child to the dentist as soon as their first teeth appear — usually around six months to one year of age.
- ✓ This first visit is more of an introduction than an examination: a chance to meet the team, sit in the chair, and get comfortable with the environment.
- ✓ We'll also give you guidance on caring for your child's teeth at home and what to expect as more teeth come through.
- ✓ From there, we recommend check-ups every six months, so children grow up seeing the dentist as a routine, unremarkable part of life.
Nervous children welcome
Helping nervous children feel comfortable
Dental anxiety in children is very common — and completely understandable. Many adults who are nervous at the dentist today had a difficult experience when they were young. We take this very seriously and work hard to make sure every child leaves our practice feeling positive about their visit.
We take a show-tell-do approach with younger children: we show them the instruments, explain what they do in simple terms, and then carry out the procedure at a pace the child is comfortable with. There's never any rushing, no surprises, and no pressure. If a child needs to stop, we stop.
Questions
Frequently asked
When should my child first visit the dentist? +
As soon as their first tooth appears, or by their first birthday at the latest. Early visits are short and low-key — they're primarily about familiarising your child with the environment and giving you advice on home care.
Are children's dental treatments available on the NHS? +
NHS dental treatment is free for children under 18 in the UK. Please contact us to discuss availability and registration for NHS children's appointments.
My child is very nervous — how do you handle this? +
We're very experienced with nervous children and understand that a gentle, patient approach makes all the difference. We always go at the child's pace, explain everything in advance, and never force any treatment. If a child is particularly anxious, we may suggest a familiarisation visit first — just coming in to have a look around and meet the team, with no treatment at all.
How can I help my child look after their teeth at home? +
Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste — once in the morning and once last thing at night. For children under three, use a smear of toothpaste; for children three and over, a pea-sized amount. Supervise brushing until your child is around seven to eight years old. Limit sugary food and drinks to mealtimes only, and avoid sugary drinks at bedtime.
What age should my child see an orthodontist? +
We typically refer children for an orthodontic assessment between the ages of ten and thirteen, when most of the adult teeth have come through. However, we may flag potential issues earlier and refer sooner if needed. See our Orthodontic Referrals page for more.
Ready to book?
Happy smiles start early
Call us on 01732 521123 or email hello@larkfielddentalcare.co.uk — we'd love to help.