Many parents wait until a child complains of toothache before the first dental visit. By then, the first experience of the dentist is a painful one — and that memory sticks. A calm, early first visit is one of the best things you can do for your child's long-term relationship with dental care.
When to go
The usual advice is to book the first visit when the first tooth appears, and no later than the first birthday. It sounds early, but the visit is short and gentle, and it's as much about giving you guidance as it is about checking teeth.
What happens at the first visit
- Your child gets to look around, sit in the chair (or on your lap) and meet the team without anything being done in a hurry.
- A quick, gentle look at the teeth, gums and how the jaw is developing.
- Advice for you on brushing, the right amount of fluoride toothpaste, bottle and feeding habits, and teething.
- Fluoride varnish if it's appropriate — painted on in seconds.
Why milk teeth matter
It's tempting to think baby teeth don't count because they fall out. But they hold space for the adult teeth, help with speech and chewing, and decay in them can be painful and spread infection. Children with early decay are also more likely to have cavities in their adult teeth.
How to prepare your child
- Keep the language positive and simple — "the dentist will count your teeth".
- Avoid words like "hurt", "needle" or "drill", and don't use the dentist as a threat.
- Book a time of day when your child is usually rested and fed.
- Read a picture book about visiting the dentist beforehand.
Our pediatric dentistry page explains how we approach children's visits. To book your child's first appointment at our Mannady clinic, call or WhatsApp +91 94444 08087.
