Your child's first visit to the dental office

Your child's first visit to the dental office should be around his/her first birthday, but could be as early as you'd like (as soon as the first tooth erupts or even sooner). Here are some Do's and Don'ts.

Do:

have a tour of the dental office by going in for a casual, friendly, get acquainted visit and checkup
make an appointment for a visual check of your child's teeth
have a discussion with your dental hygienist or dentist about oral health care for your child
familiarize your child with the dental office. Consider taking them along when you or a sibling has a dental appointment
Don't:
wait for an emergency for the first visit
over prepare your children for dental visits
use phrases like "It won't hurt much" or "It won't be too bad". Such phrases do not soothe; they only create anxiety
Some dental offices provide a free first dental visit for children under the age of three.
Call your dental office to find out if they are participating in the program.