Children’s dentistry at Schenkelaars Dentists
A visit to the dentist can be stressful for many children. At Schenkelaars Dentists, we take the time to help children get used to dental visits in a calm way. We have friendly dentists who know how to work with children. With a gentle approach, clear explanations, and a safe, welcoming atmosphere, we help children grow towards a healthy smile. Step by step, we build trust from the very first visit.
What is children’s dentistry?
Children’s dentistry is dental care specifically tailored to children. It focuses on check-ups, guidance and explanations in a way that suits a child’s age. This helps keep teeth healthy and makes visits to the dentist as pleasant as possible.
What can we help you with?
We help children with the basic care needed for a healthy set of (baby) teeth and a good start with permanent teeth. Parents receive clear explanations and there is always room for questions.
You can visit us for, among other things:
- check-ups for baby teeth and permanent teeth
- calm guidance for children who feel nervous
- advice and explanations about brushing and oral care, at child-friendly level
- tips for parents on keeping children’s teeth healthy
- clear information about next steps if extra care is needed
For the whole family
Children’s dentistry is for children of all ages, up to 18 years old. The goal is a healthy mouth and a familiar, positive experience at the dentist from a young age. Many children visit our practice early on to get used to dental appointments, often together with their parents.
Most dental care for children up to 18 years old is covered by basic health insurance. Regular check-ups help detect problems early and support healthy habits.
- For young children who want to get used to the dentist calmly
- For children who find visits exciting and appreciate extra explanations
- For parents who want clarity and clear guidance
Calm, personal attention and clear explanations
In our family practice we use a calm and child-friendly approach. We explain what we do in simple words and take the time to help a child feel at ease.
- We work at a calm pace
- We explain step by step what will happen
- We give children time to get used to the visit
- We involve parents and answer questions
A healthy foundation for the future
A healthy mouth starts at a young age. Regular check-ups help detect problems early. Children also learn that the dentist is a familiar and safe place.
- Early detection of problems
- Guidance on brushing and oral care
- Getting used to the dentist in a safe environment
Contact us
Do you have questions about this treatment or would you like to make an appointment? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to help and clearly explain everything.
If more care is needed
Frequently asked questions about children’s dentistry
You can start as soon as the first teeth come through. This is often around 6 months to 1 year old. The first visits are mainly meant to help your child get used to it in a calm way. Many families schedule the first real check-up around age 2 to 3, or at the latest around age 4. The best moment depends on your child.
Starting early has benefits:
- your child learns that the dentist is a normal, safe place
- you receive tips about brushing, eating and drinking
- we can spot problems early
In most cases, twice a year (every 6 months) is a logical schedule. This way we can monitor your child’s teeth in time and help them get used to regular visits.
Sometimes we recommend a different schedule, for example if cavities develop more quickly or if your child needs extra guidance.
A check-up is short and calm. We look at the teeth, molars and gums, and we explain what we do in simple words. Parents can ask questions and receive tips that match their child’s age.
We check, for example:
- whether the teeth and molars are healthy
- whether the gums look calm and healthy
- whether there are spots where cavities may develop more easily
- whether brushing and oral care are going well
That is very common. We take our time, work at a calm pace and explain step by step what is happening. You can also tell us in advance what your child is afraid of, so we can take extra care.
These tips often help:
- arrive on time so there is no stress
- explain briefly at home what you are going to do, without making it a big thing
- let your child ask a question or point something out in the chair
- agree that your child can say “stop” if it feels too much
Brush twice a day and help your child as a parent. Many children cannot brush properly on their own until they are older. Cleaning between the teeth also becomes important once teeth touch each other.
Practical tips:
- brush at fixed moments, for example after breakfast and before bedtime
- brush together or brush again as a parent
- keep it a short daily routine — better every day than “perfect” occasionally
- ask during the check-up for brushing and cleaning tips for your situation
For children up to 18 years old, basic dental care is often covered through the Dutch basic health insurance. This includes check-ups and many common treatments. What is covered can vary per insurer and situation.
Want to be sure? Feel free to contact us — we are happy to advise what is useful to check in advance.
Dental hygiene can also be helpful for children, for example to improve brushing habits or keep gums healthy. If this is useful for your child, we will discuss it during an appointment.
Possible benefits:
- clear explanations on a child-friendly level
- practical tips that are easy to follow at home
- extra attention for gums and oral care
Yes. If your child is not yet registered in our system, registration is the easiest first step. After that, we will schedule a suitable moment for a first visit or check-up together.