First Visit to the Dentist

 

Infant Exam

New parents have plenty to juggle—balancing sleep schedules, adjusting to new routines, and figuring out what to do in unfamiliar situations. When it comes to your child's oral health, we are here to help every step of the way. It all begins with your baby's first dental visit.

When should we meet your child? According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should have their first dental checkup by age one or within six months after the first tooth appears. Surprised? You are not alone! Even if only a few teeth are visible, it is the perfect time to start building strong, healthy habits that make future dental visits easy and enjoyable.

Early dental visits help catch issues before they develop into bigger problems. Studies show that 1 in 4 children will have their first cavity by age four, and some even develop tooth decay before age one. This condition, known as early childhood caries, often stems from prolonged exposure to sugary liquids like formula, juice, soda, and even milk, including breast milk.

At your baby's first visit, we will:

  • Gently examine their mouth for any early signs of decay
  • Assess their risk for developing cavities
  • Review developmental milestones
  • Guide you on how to care for your child's teeth and gums
  • Discuss fluoride, accident prevention, and dietary choices

You will also be introduced to the Infant-Toddler Oral Care Program, developed in partnership with the AAPD. This program provides helpful tips on establishing a healthy foundation for your child's oral health.

Preparing for the Big Day

Children are incredibly perceptive—if you are nervous about the visit, they may sense it. Keep the mood positive and light. Let your child know they will be visiting the dentist to help keep their smile strong and healthy.

Helpful tips for the visit:

  • Bring a favorite toy, a snack, and an extra diaper
  • Try to leave siblings at home, if possible, so the focus stays on the new patient
  • Consider bringing another adult to help out
  • Complete the forms ahead of time to save time on the day of the appointment

First Cleaning Visit

By age 3, your child will be ready for their first dental cleaning. These early cleanings are essential for removing plaque, reinforcing healthy routines, and ensuring your child feels comfortable at the dentist.

During the visit, we will:

  • Gently clean your child's teeth
  • Review brushing and flossing techniques with you and your child
  • Offer strategies to prevent cavities
  • Assess your child's ongoing oral development

This visit also allows us to evaluate any early signs of tooth decay and discuss the best ways to keep your child's teeth healthy through good diet and hygiene practices. We may recommend preventive treatments like fluoride and explain their benefits if needed.

The Checkup

Once you and your child are settled, we will perform a gentle, thorough exam. We will look for signs of early decay, assess their cavity risk, and help you understand what steps to take at home to maintain oral health. These early conversations are key in preventing problems later, and often, with proper care, we can even reverse early-stage decay.

Recommended Books for Dental Visit Preparation

Reading together can help ease any anxiety and make dental visits more familiar. Here are some wonderful children's books to consider before your appointment:

  1. The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist - Stan & Jan Berenstain
    A classic story that walks kids through a dental checkup, including how cavities are handled.
  2. Curious George Visits the Dentist - H.A. Rey
    Join George as he learns that a trip to the dentist is not scary at all.
  3. ABC Dentist: Healthy Teeth From A to Z - Harriet Ziefert
    Perfect for preschoolers learning the alphabet while discovering dental health terms.
  4. The Crocodile and the Dentist - Taro Gomi
    A sweet, reassuring story for children feeling anxious about dental visits.
  5. What to Expect When You Go to the Dentist - Heidi Murkoff
    A comprehensive guide that helps prepare children for everything they might see or hear.
  6. Just Going to the Dentist - Mercer Mayer
    Follow Little Critter as he gets his teeth checked and learns about X-rays and fillings.
  7. The Tooth Book - Dr. Seuss
    A fun, rhyming introduction to dental care that makes learning about teeth enjoyable.

Do not wait—get it done by age one!
Many lifelong habits begin early. Bringing your child to the dentist during their first year lays the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Contact us today to schedule your child's first visit or to learn more about our pediatric dental care services.

For more helpful resources, visit the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.