Why are children not attending the dentist?

Watching your child grow up healthy and happy is one of the greatest joys of parenthood, and a bright, confident smile plays a big part in that. Making sure your child’s teeth are properly cared for from the very beginning sets the foundation for lifelong oral health, but it isn’t always straightforward. Raising a child comes with a constant stream of decisions, and staying on top of dentist visits isn’t always as simple as it sounds. Understanding the need for regular visits and having a dentist you can really rely on makes all the difference – and that’s where we come in!

At AP Smilecare, we know how much you care about your child’s well-being, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. As experts in family dentistry, we believe clarity, reassurance and accessibility are key. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at why children aren’t attending the dentist as regularly as they should, exploring how the right support can help you keep your child’s smile healthy for years to come.

How many children are actually seeing a dentist?

According to the NHSBSA, only 57 % of children in England were seen by an NHS dentist between 2024/25. This suggests that a decent number of children aren’t getting the regular dental care they need, and we’re definitely noticing the consequences. A 2024 survey carried out by the National Dental Epidemiology Programme found that just over a quarter (26.9%) of 5-year-olds in England showed signs of enamel or dentinal decay, with 22.4% having obvious dentinal decay. As experts in family dentistry, we regularly see the impact these issues have on children and families, and we want to help. So why is it happening? Let’s break it down.

Why are children missing dental appointments?

Despite having the best intentions, regular dental visits don’t always happen as planned for every child, and the reality of accessing care can look very different from one family to the next. Understanding why some children aren’t seeing the dentist as often as they should is an important step in addressing the issue. With that in mind, let’s explore a few of the most common reasons behind this problem.

Difficulty accessing proper dental care

For many families, accessing regular dental care for their child isn’t as easy as it should be. Parents are often faced with long or unclear waiting lists, uncertainty around NHS availability and limited information about when appointments might become available. Navigating these systems can be confusing and time-consuming, particularly for busy families trying to balance work, school, and other commitments. Because of this, some children go longer than recommended between check-ups. Fortunately, at AP Smilecare, we do accept children as NHS patients, and we’re here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Fear and anxiety around dental visits

As many of us know all too well, very few children are thrilled at the thought of visiting the dentist. Anxiety and fear of pain can make regular check-ups seem daunting, making children a lot less willing to attend routine appointments. Choosing a dentist experienced in putting young patients at ease can make a massive difference, and we’re proud to say that this is one area where we really shine. Our friendly and approachable team of experts are committed to making dentistry less intimidating, creating relaxing and reassuring experiences for our younger patients.

Lack of awareness about when to start dental visits

Many parents we talk to aren’t sure when to take their child to the dentist for the first time, with some families delaying visits until school age. This can cause issues like tooth decay to be missed in the early stages, leading to problems like pain, infections, missed school days and even difficulty eating and speaking properly.
We always recommend following NHS guidance by booking your child’s first dental visit when their first tooth appears or before they turn one. As well as keeping their teeth healthy in the short term, taking your child to the dentist early on gives them a chance to get used to the process as soon as possible, making them feel less anxious and setting up good habits for the rest of their life.

How can you help your child?

We appreciate that managing your child’s oral health can be tricky, but with the right advice, it doesn’t need to be. Here are some practical steps you can take to begin creating a positive healthcare routine for your little one.

Make check-ups a regular habit – we recommend attending dental appointments every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.

Talk openly about dental health, helping your child understand what to expect and why dentist visits are so important.

Model good oral health at home (e.g. regular brushing and healthy eating).

Choose a child-friendly dentist – look for practices with experience in family dentistry.

Why choose us to look after your child’s oral health?

At AP Smilecare, we understand how crucial early dental care is for your child’s smile, and we want to keep them happy and healthy for even longer. Our dedicated team have over 20 years of experience, and are proud to offer a welcoming, reassuring experience for children of all ages. From gentle check-ups to tailored advice on brushing and diet, we’ll work with you and your child to build healthy habits that last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Blackburn, don’t hesitate to explore our website or give us a call on 01254 297 000 today, and we’ll be happy to help!