Dental Hygiene for Children and Preventive Check-ups at the Dentist

Why think about prevention specifically during the holidays?

Summer holidays provide plenty of free time so you can calmly schedule preventive dental check-ups or dental hygiene appointments for your children. This way, you avoid missing kindergarten or school.

Healthy teeth are the foundation of your child’s overall health, and regular prevention helps avoid unpleasant and painful issues. Don’t forget to use the summer period to catch up on preventive care!

When to visit the dentist and dental hygienist for the first time?

You don’t need to wait for the first pain to visit the dentist – it’s recommended to come as soon as the first tooth erupts, but no later than your child’s first birthday. The dentist will check if the teeth are developing properly and advise how to care for them. Your little one will also get familiar with the dental office environment.

The first dental hygiene visit is usually appropriate around the child’s third year, when most baby teeth are in the mouth. It’s always good to consult with your dentist when this step is best for your child.

How many times a year is a child entitled to check-ups and dental hygiene?

Every child in Slovakia is legally entitled to one preventive dental check-up per year. From six years old until turning eighteen (i.e., during school years), the child is entitled to two check-ups per year.

Regarding dental hygiene, most health insurance companies cover this service once a year for children under 18. Some offer more frequent coverage through benefit programs – check with your insurance or your dentist for options.

Overview of health insurance companies and services covered for children

• Preventive check-up: Covered once (or twice from age 6) per year by all health insurance companies.
• Dental hygiene: Most companies reimburse once a year, sometimes more often via benefit programs (e.g., Dôvera, Union, VšZP).
• Each insurer may have specific conditions; we recommend contacting your provider or visiting their website for the latest details.

Tips on preparing your child for the dentist visit

• Talk to your child about what to expect at the dental office – show pictures or books about dental visits.
• Maintain regular tooth brushing at home morning and evening to keep the mouth ready for professional checks.
• Don’t leave appointment booking to the last minute to have the widest choice of times and a stress-free visit.
• After the check-up, praise your child for their bravery and enjoy a free day together!

If you notice unusual symptoms or tooth problems in your child, always seek advice from a pediatrician or dentist.