Your child's first dental visit: when to go and how to prepare

Milk teeth fall out eventually, so it's tempting to think they don't matter much. But they hold space for the permanent teeth, help children chew and speak properly, and decay in milk teeth can cause real pain and infection. A good first experience at the dentist also sets the tone for a lifetime.

When to go

A good rule is to book the first visit around the time the first tooth appears, and no later than the first birthday. After that, a check-up every six months is usually enough — or sooner if you notice something.

What happens at the first visit

The first visit is short and gentle. The dentist will usually:

• Look at the teeth, gums and bite
• Check for early signs of decay
• Show you how to clean your child's teeth
• Talk about diet, bottle and feeding habits, and thumb-sucking

For very young children, the examination may be done with the child sitting on a parent's lap.

How to prepare your child

• Keep it positive. Use simple words like "the dentist will count your teeth"
• Avoid words like "hurt", "injection" or "drill", and don't use the dentist as a threat
• Choose a time of day when your child is usually rested and fed
• Read a picture book or play "dentist" with a toy at home

Habits that prevent cavities

• Start cleaning as soon as the first tooth appears, with a soft brush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste
• From age 3, use a pea-sized amount, and supervise brushing until about 7 or 8
• Don't put a child to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice
• Limit sticky sweets and sugary drinks, especially between meals
• Start flossing once two teeth touch

Signs to watch for

White or brown spots on the teeth, a child who avoids chewing on one side, swelling, or complaints of tooth pain all deserve a dental visit.

Dr. Jahanvi Tyagi sees children at the clinic in Jhotwara, Jaipur, and takes time to make young patients comfortable. Book an appointment for your child's check-up.