Your Child’s First Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that every child see a dentist within 6 months of their first tooth or by their first birthday — whichever comes first.
When Should My Baby First See a Dentist?
The first baby tooth typically erupts between 5 and 8 months of age. This is your signal that it’s time to schedule that first dental visit! Don’t wait until your child has a full set of teeth — early visits establish a dental home and catch any issues before they become problems.
The first visit is mostly about getting acquainted — with you, with your baby, and with your family’s oral health history. We’ll do a gentle examination, answer all your questions, and set you up with a personalized home care plan.
How Do I Brush My Baby’s Teeth?
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears! Here’s what we recommend:
- Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush designed for infants
- For children under 3: use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (no bigger than a grain of rice)
- For children 3–6: use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
- Brush twice a day — morning and night, always before bed
- Brush for two minutes, covering all surfaces of every tooth
- Parents should help brush until the child can tie their own shoes (around age 6–8)
Fun tip: Let your child pick their toothbrush and toothpaste flavor to make brushing feel like their choice, not a chore!
🦷 Tooth Timeline
5–8 months: First tooth erupts (usually lower front teeth)
By 12 months: First dental visit recommended
2–3 years: Full set of 20 baby teeth in place
6 years: First permanent molars begin to erupt
6–12 years: Baby teeth lost, permanent teeth come in
12–13 years: All permanent teeth in (except wisdom teeth)
📋 What to Expect at the First Visit
- Gentle exam of teeth, gums, jaw, and bite
- Assessment of any oral habits (thumb-sucking, pacifier)
- Cleaning and fluoride varnish if appropriate
- Personalized oral hygiene instruction for parents
- Nutritional counseling
- Plenty of time for all your questions!
Ready to book your child’s first visit?
We can’t wait to meet your little one. The sooner you come in, the better start we can give that tiny smile!