A child’s first trip to the dentist is a big milestone. Starting early helps catch problems before they become painful, and it teaches kids that dental visits are a normal, even fun, part of staying healthy. Here is everything parents should know about planning that first dental visit.
When should the first visit happen?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by your child’s first birthday, or within six months after the first tooth appears. That may sound early, but baby teeth can get cavities as soon as they come in, and early visits give us a chance to spot concerns and answer your questions.
What happens at the first appointment
The first visit is short and relaxed. Depending on your child’s age, it usually includes:
- A gentle look at the teeth, gums, and jaw, often with your child sitting on your lap
- Checking for early signs of decay and how teeth are coming in
- A light cleaning and, if appropriate, a fluoride treatment
- Tips on brushing, teething, thumb-sucking, pacifiers, and diet
- Time for your questions
How to prepare your child
- Keep it positive. Use simple, friendly words and avoid phrases like “it won’t hurt,” which can plant the idea of pain.
- Read a book or play pretend about visiting the dentist. Let your child count a stuffed animal’s teeth.
- Schedule wisely. Morning appointments, after a nap and a snack, tend to go best.
- Bring a comfort item such as a favorite toy or blanket.
- Stay calm yourself. Kids pick up on a parent’s feelings, so a relaxed attitude goes a long way.
Building good habits at home
Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft cloth before teeth arrive. Once the first tooth appears, brush twice a day with a soft, child-sized brush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. For children ages three to six, use a pea-sized amount. Avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
After the first dental visit
Once the first dental visit is done, regular checkups every six months keep your child on track. Our back-to-school dental checklist is a handy reminder for school-age kids. You can find more guidance for parents from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
A friendly start at Michiana Family Dental
As a family practice, we love meeting our youngest patients. Our team takes things slowly and makes the visit fun, so your child can grow up feeling comfortable in the dental chair. Call us to schedule your little one’s first visit.