Your Child's First Dental Visit

What Is Your Child's First Dental Visit?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends the first dental visit no later than a child's first birthday or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting. These early visits are gentle and educational — the dentist counts teeth, checks for early decay, evaluates the bite, and guides parents on brushing, teething, pacifier use, and nutrition.

How It Works

The first visit is brief (20–30 minutes). The pediatric dentist performs a "lap exam" with very young children — the child sits on the parent's lap facing the dentist. As children get older, they transition to sitting independently in the chair. The goal is to make the experience positive and build trust.

Key Benefits

• Establishes a dental home and baseline oral health record
• Identifies early decay or development concerns
• Reduces dental anxiety by normalizing the experience early
• Parents receive tailored guidance on diet, habits, and brushing
• Early treatment prevents more invasive procedures later

Frequently Asked Questions