Your child’s first visit to the dentist

A good first experience helps children feel comfortable at the dentist for years to come.

When?

When the first teeth appear, or by around the first birthday. Early visits are short and mostly about checking and advice.

What happens?

The dentist says hello, shows the chair and the tools, and gently looks at the teeth and gums — sometimes with the child sitting on a parent’s lap. You’ll get advice about brushing, diet and habits like thumb-sucking.

How to prepare

• Choose a time when your child is rested and not hungry
• Talk about the visit positively and simply
• Avoid words like “pain”, “needle” or “drill”
• Bring a favourite toy

At home

Brush your child’s teeth twice a day with an age-appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste, help until they can do it well themselves, and keep sweets to mealtimes.