Your Child's First Dental Visit: A Parent's Guide

Many parents wonder when to bring a child to the dentist, and how to make the first visit a good one. The short answer: earlier than you think.

When should the first visit be?

Around your child's first birthday, or when the first tooth appears, whichever comes first. At this age the visit is mostly a chat: the dentist checks the teeth and gums, looks at how your child is developing and gives you practical advice for home.

What happens at the first visit?

• A gentle look at your child's teeth, gums and bite
• Advice on brushing, feeding habits and thumb-sucking or dummy use
• Fluoride and sealant guidance, where appropriate
• Time to ask all your questions

Brushing basics by age

• Under 3: brush twice a day with a smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.
• Ages 3 to 6: use a pea-sized amount, and help your child brush and spit. They shouldn't swallow toothpaste.
• From about 6: children can start brushing themselves, but still need supervision until around 7 or 8.

Habits that affect little teeth

• Night-time bottles and sugary drinks can cause rapid decay in baby teeth.
• Frequent sweets and sticky snacks. It's how often, not only how much sugar, that matters.
• Thumb-sucking or dummy use beyond about age 4 can affect how the teeth and jaws develop.

Making the visit easy

• Keep it positive and matter-of-fact: avoid words like "pain" or "needle".
• Choose a time when your child is rested and not hungry.
• Stay calm yourself; children pick up on a parent's worry.

Baby teeth matter: they hold space for permanent teeth and help your child eat, speak and smile. Starting early builds good habits for life. Learn about children's dentistry at Shree Hari Dental Care.