First dental visit for children – when to take your child to the dentist for the first time?

Fear of the dentist is often a result of unpleasant childhood experiences. Although painful dental drilling is now a thing of the past, many adults still react to the word “dentist” with anxiety. Modern dentistry has come a long way, and dental offices no longer resemble horror movie scenes. That’s why it’s so important to introduce your child to the dentist and proper oral hygiene from an early age. If done well, children are more likely to attend regular check-ups in the future without fear or resistance. So when should you take your child to the dentist for the first time, what should the first dental visit look like, and why are regular check-ups so important? We explain everything in the article below.

How to prepare your child for the first dental visit?

You shouldn’t wait until your child experiences tooth pain or cavities to take them to the dentist. The best time for the first visit is when the first baby teeth appear, even if there seem to be no problems. Why? As mentioned earlier, fear of the dentist is often rooted in painful past experiences. If the first appointment happens when the child is already in pain, the dentist may be associated with discomfort. To avoid this, it’s best to make the first visit a positive experience. Go to the dentist before any issues arise – this will make future visits much easier. And never wait until permanent teeth appear, thinking baby teeth don’t need treatment because they will fall out anyway. Proper oral care should begin from the very first days of life.

First dental appointment – make sure it’s a pleasant experience

Before visiting the dentist, mentally prepare your child for the appointment. Don’t mention your own fears or say things like “it might hurt.” Avoid using threats like “if you don’t brush your teeth, they’ll rot and you’ll have to go to the dentist.” Instead, focus on encouraging your child by explaining the benefits of visiting the dentist, such as having healthy and beautiful teeth. Tell fun stories or sing songs about dental care to create positive associations. The goal is to make your child look forward to dental visits rather than fear them.

READ MORE: How to brush a baby’s teeth?

When should you take your child to the dentist for the first time?

Most experts recommend scheduling the first dental visit when the first baby tooth erupts – typically around six months of age. During the initial visit, the dentist will examine your child’s mouth, assess tooth eruption, check for early signs of tooth decay, and provide guidance on oral hygiene practices. From then on, children should visit the dentist for routine check-ups every three months. If any alarming symptoms appear, such as pain, bleeding gums, swelling, or visible decay, a visit should be made immediately.

How to choose the right dentist for your child?

Choosing the right dentist is crucial. It’s important to find someone with experience in working with children – a pediatric dentist (pedodontist) is ideal. The dentist should be professional, patient, and capable of making the child feel comfortable and safe during the appointment. Ask friends for recommendations or check online reviews, but remember to verify them in person. A quick meeting with the dentist before the appointment can help determine if they are the right fit for your child.

What to expect during your child’s first dental visit?

Pediatric dental clinics are often decorated in a child-friendly way with colorful posters and toys in the waiting room. These elements help reduce anxiety and make the experience enjoyable. Young children usually sit on a parent’s lap during the examination, while older children sit alone in the chair. The parent remains nearby to offer reassurance. The dentist checks the child’s teeth, evaluates the eruption process, and ensures there are no early signs of dental problems. Parents also receive instructions on how to care for their child’s teeth at home.

How often should children have a dental check-up?

Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection of oral health issues. Dentists can spot early signs of decay or gum problems and take preventive measures. It’s recommended that children see the dentist at least twice a year. However, for younger children, more frequent visits—about every four months—may be beneficial.