Your child's first dentist visit: when to go and what to expect

When should a child first see the dentist?

The ADA says the first visit should come after the first tooth appears, but no later than the first birthday. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry also encourages families to schedule the first appointment by the first birthday and to set up a regular dental home by 12 months.

The NHS gives very similar advice for families in the UK: take your child to the dentist when their first milk teeth appear, or before they are 12 months old. The CDC also recommends a visit by your baby's first birthday to spot signs of problems early.

It can feel early to take a baby to the dentist. But the ADA points out that cavities can start as soon as a baby has teeth, so an early check is about prevention, not treatment.

Why go so early?

An early visit gives your dentist a chance to check that everything is developing well and to answer your questions before small problems grow. It also gives you practical tips for cleaning your baby's teeth at home.

Just as importantly, it helps your child get used to the sights, sounds and smells of a dental surgery while there is nothing to fix. A calm first experience can make later check-ups much easier for everyone.

What happens at the first dentist visit?

First visits are usually quick and relaxed. According to the ADA, you will likely sit in the dental chair with your child on your lap, and some wiggling or crying is completely normal.

Depending on your child's age and how many teeth they have, the dentist may:

• Check that the teeth, gums, jaw and bite are developing properly.
• Look for cavities, mouth injuries or anything else that needs attention.
• Gently clean the teeth to remove plaque or stains, if needed.
• Talk with you about brushing, toothpaste, feeding, teething and thumb-sucking.
• Discuss fluoride varnish, which can be painted onto the teeth to help protect them.

How to prepare your child for the dentist

A little preparation goes a long way. The ADA suggests these simple steps before the appointment.

1. 1Ask the dental practice for any forms in advance and fill them in at home.
2. 2Book a time when your child is usually rested and alert, not during naptime.
3. 3Practise opening your child's mouth at home, so it feels familiar.
4. 4Write down any questions you want to ask, such as about teething or thumb-sucking.
5. 5Give a light meal beforehand, then brush their teeth, and save snacks for after the visit.

Tips for toddlers and older children

If your child is old enough to understand, keep the conversation short and positive. You might say the dentist is going to count their teeth and check they are strong. Try not to share your own worries or use words like hurt or scary.

Reading a picture book about a dentist visit or playing dentist with a toy can help. The NHS suggests staying positive and making the trip fun. A small treat that is not sweet, like choosing a sticker, can be a nice way to finish.

If your child is very anxious, has special needs, or a past visit went badly, tell the dental team when you book. They can often allow extra time or suggest ways to make it easier.

How often should children go to the dentist after that?

After the first visit, go back as often as your dentist recommends. The NHS advises keeping up regular check-ups at the interval your dentist suggests, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends dental check-ups twice a year for children.

In the UK, NHS dental care is free for children. The NHS also says children aged 3 and over should be offered fluoride varnish at least twice a year, and younger children may be offered it if the dentist thinks they need it.

Between check-ups, talk to your dentist or doctor if your child has toothache, swelling, a knocked or broken tooth, or white or brown spots on their teeth.

Questions parents ask