When should I first take my child to the dentist?

The first appointment should take place around the child's first birthday or when the first baby teeth appear. This allows problems to be detected early, guides parents and builds positive habits around dental visits.

Are dental sealants important?

Yes, sealants are one of the most effective ways to prevent decay in children's permanent teeth. They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars, creating a protective barrier that reduces the risk of decay by up to 80%.

What should I do if my child is afraid of the dentist?

At Alinea Kids, the team is trained to work with anxious children using the 'tell-show-do' technique, gradual desensitisation and adapted communication. In cases of severe anxiety, conscious sedation may be recommended to ensure a positive experience.

Do baby teeth need treatment?

Yes. Baby teeth are essential for chewing, speech, maintaining space for permanent teeth and building self-esteem. Decay in baby teeth should be treated to prevent pain, infection and damage to permanent teeth.

At what age can a child start wearing braces?

Orthodontic assessment is recommended from age 6-7. Interceptive appliances may be indicated at this stage to correct bite problems. Full fixed braces are generally fitted during adolescence, once most permanent teeth have erupted.

Paediatric Dentistry in Cascais

Specialist dental care for children

Paediatric dentistry at Alinea Kids is dedicated to children's oral health, from the appearance of the first baby teeth through to adolescence. Our dedicated space at Marina de Cascais was designed specifically to welcome children into a warm, playful and fun environment, where dental care becomes a positive experience that builds healthy habits for life. Our team is made up of paediatric dentists with specific training in child behavioural management, desensitisation techniques and communication adapted to each age group.

Alinea Kids space at Marina de Cascais

The Alinea Kids space at Marina de Cascais was designed from the ground up to provide a distinctive experience for children. With colourful themed decor, equipment sized for children, screens showing cartoons and a team trained in child behavioural management, appointments become enjoyable, educational moments. The goal is for the child to build a positive relationship with the dentist from an early age.

First dental appointment: when and why

The European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry recommends that the first dental appointment take place around the child's first birthday or when the first baby teeth appear. This appointment allows for assessment of oral and craniofacial development, detection of harmful habits (dummy use, thumb-sucking, night-time bottle feeding), early identification of possible problems, and guidance for parents on proper oral hygiene, brushing technique and healthy eating.

Prevention: sealants, fluoride and education

At Alinea Kids, the philosophy is preventive. Treatments include professional fluoride varnish application to strengthen enamel, fissure sealants on permanent molars (which reduce the risk of decay by 80%), oral hygiene education using age-appropriate techniques, assessment of dental growth and development, and preventive and interceptive orthodontics when indicated. Prevention is always more effective and comfortable than treatment.

Preventive and interceptive orthodontics

Orthodontic assessment in children should take place around age 6-7, when the first permanent molars and incisors erupt. Interceptive orthodontics allows correction of crossbite, protrusion, crowding and harmful habits (such as mouth breathing) during a period of active growth, avoiding more complex treatment during adolescence. At Alinea, Dr Cesar Pimentel assesses each case and recommends the ideal time to intervene.

How treatment is planned

Playful welcome: The child is welcomed into the Alinea Kids space with activities and an environment adapted to their age.
Clinical assessment: Examination of the mouth, teeth and gums with adapted communication and the 'tell-show-do' technique.
X-ray (if needed): Digital radiograph with minimal radiation dose, only when clinically indicated.
Preventive treatment: Fluoride application, fissure sealants or paediatric scaling according to individual needs.
Hygiene education: Age-appropriate brushing instruction using demonstration models and playful materials.
Follow-up plan: Setting the appointment schedule and guiding parents on diet and oral habits.

Benefits and treatment goals

Dedicated, welcoming space for children
Team specialised in paediatric dentistry
Total focus on prevention
Protective fluoride and sealant application
Preventive and interceptive orthodontics
Playful education for healthy habits

Your Alinea clinic

Alinea Marina de Cascais is located at the iconic Marina de Cascais. This is home to the Alinea Kids space, entirely dedicated to children, and where orofacial harmonisation is offered in partnership with leading specialists. The prime marina-side location combines clinical excellence with a unique setting.

Alinea Premium Oral Care Cascais
Marina de Cascais, Loja 56, 2750-800 Cascais
+351 211 165 807

Frequently asked questions

When should I first take my child to the dentist?: The first appointment should take place around the child's first birthday or when the first baby teeth appear. This allows problems to be detected early, guides parents and builds positive habits around dental visits.
Are dental sealants important?: Yes, sealants are one of the most effective ways to prevent decay in children's permanent teeth. They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars, creating a protective barrier that reduces the risk of decay by up to 80%.
What should I do if my child is afraid of the dentist?: At Alinea Kids, the team is trained to work with anxious children using the 'tell-show-do' technique, gradual desensitisation and adapted communication. In cases of severe anxiety, conscious sedation may be recommended to ensure a positive experience.
Do baby teeth need treatment?: Yes. Baby teeth are essential for chewing, speech, maintaining space for permanent teeth and building self-esteem. Decay in baby teeth should be treated to prevent pain, infection and damage to permanent teeth.
At what age can a child start wearing braces?: Orthodontic assessment is recommended from age 6-7. Interceptive appliances may be indicated at this stage to correct bite problems. Full fixed braces are generally fitted during adolescence, once most permanent teeth have erupted.