Preparing Your Child for Their First Dental Visit

We recommend a child's first dental visit happen by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. This early check-up is less about treatment and more about building comfort with the environment.

Before the visit

• Use positive, neutral language — avoid words like 'hurt' or 'shot'
• Read a picture book about visiting the dentist together
• Avoid scheduling around nap time or hunger

What actually happens at a first visit

For very young children, the visit is often a 'knee-to-knee' exam — a gentle look at teeth and gums while seated on a parent's lap, lasting only a few minutes.

Building a routine

Regular six-month visits, paired with consistent brushing at home, are the single biggest factor in preventing childhood cavities — and in raising kids who aren't afraid of the dentist.