That tiny first tooth peeking through is always an exciting sign! It also signals something that might not have crossed your mind: baby’s first visit to the dentist.

Understandably, you might think that baby teeth don’t need much attention because they’ll eventually fall out.

So why is this visit so important, what should you expect when you go, and how do you care for your little one’s smile confidently?

Why is this so important?

Healthy baby teeth play a vital role in a child’s development, beyond just chewing. They’re essential for clear speech and act as guides for adult teeth when they are ready to pop up.

Plus, a good first visit could make little ones feel more comfortable with the dentist. And anything that helps future check-ups go a little easier is a win!

When should my baby see the dentist?

So, when should you book that first dental appointment? The Australian Dental Association (ADA) and the Australian and New Zealand Society of Paediatric Dentistry (ANZSPD) both suggest aiming for around baby’s first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. After that, regular check-ups are recommended every 6 to 12 months, though this might be more frequent if there are concerns about potential cavities. Keep an eye out for things like white spots, dark stains, or unusual tooth growth, as these would also warrant an earlier visit.

What will happen at my baby’s first visit?

You can expect it to be a relatively quick and easy appointment. It’s all about your baby getting comfortable meeting the dentist, and you getting some helpful, real-world advice on how to keep those little teeth healthy.

Don’t forget to bring your baby’s favourite toy or comfort item to help them feel at ease.

Step 1: A chat about you and your baby

The visit will start with a few questions about your baby’s feeding habits, teething, and oral hygiene routine.

Step 2: A gentle peek at the tiny teeth

The dentist checks for decay, gum health, and jaw development. They’ll look for early signs of teething problems or bite misalignment.

Step 3: A little sparkle and shine (if needed)

A gentle cleaning may be done to remove plaque build-up and, if needed, a safe fluoride treatment applied to strengthen baby’s teeth.

Step 4: A baby-sized care plan

You’ll learn the best way to clean your baby’s teeth, discuss dummy use, thumb-sucking habits, and diet tips for preventing cavities.

Expect a chat about when to schedule the next visit too.

⏳ Total Time: 15-30 minutes

What should I do before the appointment?

Some firsts for babies can be daunting (for you and them!). To make this one go as smoothly and positively as possible, a little preparation can make a big difference.

Here are some helpful tips:

✅ Book a morning appointment when your baby is well-rested.

✅ Feed them before the visit but avoid sugary snacks or drinks.

✅ Talk positively about the dentist (“The dentist will help keep your teeth strong and healthy”).

✅ Practice opening their mouth at home so they get used to someone checking their teeth.

✅ Come with any questions you may have about teething, brushing, or oral habits.

What about looking after their teeth at home?

The dentist will provide expert guidance during the visit, but your daily care at home is still the best way to keep those tiny teeth clean and healthy.

Here are some tips on:

Brushing and cleaning

0-12 months: wipe gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding

First tooth appears: use a soft toothbrush and rice-sized fluoride toothpaste

12-24 months: brush twice daily using a smear or pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste

Bottle and dummy habits

❌ Avoid bottle-feeding with milk or juice at bed-time as it’s been linked to baby bottle decay

✅ Offer water in a bottle or cup after feeding to rinse the mouth

❌ Try to phase out the dummy as soon as possible to avoid bite misalignment

Diet and cavity prevention

🥕 Encourage healthy snacks like cheese, yoghurt, fruits, and vegetables

🍬 Limit sugary drinks and snacks, especially between meals

🥛 Offer water instead of juice to keep teeth strong

Give tiny teeth the best start

Setting your baby up for a lifetime of healthy smiles starts with this first dental visit. It’s an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, address any concerns, and build a positive foundation for future dental care. So, take that step, schedule the appointment, and feel confident knowing you’re giving your little one the best possible start to a bright and healthy smile!

Book your baby’s first dental check

 📖 Australian Society of Paediatric Dentistry (ASPD) (2024). “Best Practices for Baby and Toddler Oral Care”