Your Child’s First Dental Visit

We recognize that every child is unique. The purpose of the first dental visit is to establish a positive relationship with your child and evaluate your child's dental health while laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy gums and teeth. Ideally, the first dental visit takes place when your child has eight teeth, around the age of one. At this appointment, the pediatric dentist and dental staff get to know your child, explain all procedures in detail, and answer any questions you or your child may have. Along with a general exam and dental cleaning, we will discuss brushing techniques, flossing, fluoride recommendations, and healthy snacking as initial steps toward good dental hygiene.

Healthy smiles from childhood Dental care designed for children Specialists in children's smiles Where children feel safe

Frequently asked questions

A common question Dr. Marvin gets asked is, “When should I take my baby for their first dental appointment?” Some parents also wonder why baby teeth are important. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children should see a dentist when their first tooth appears or before their first birthday, whichever comes first.

Schedule your child's dental visit when they are well rested and in a good mood; the best time is in the morning or after a nap. Avoid times when they may be tired, hungry, or cranky.

To help them prepare, play “dentist” at home. Gently brush their teeth and then let them brush their own teeth or those of their favorite stuffed animal.

If you suffer from dental anxiety, don't tell anyone. Talk positively about visits to the dentist and use children's books or videos that present the experience as fun and comfortable, avoiding anything that suggests pain or fear.

How to prepare for your child's first dental visit?

As a parent, you will play an important role in making your child's first dental visit positive and enjoyable. We always encourage parents to inform their child about the visit and its purpose, but also to be careful how they present it. We recommend avoiding words that may create fear, such as “needle,” “pull,” “drill,” or “hurt.” Your child's first dental visit will rarely require such things, and even if they are necessary at some point, keep in mind that the dentist is a trained pediatric dentist and has been trained to convey information in a non-threatening manner, helping to keep your child calm and comfortable.

What happens during your child's first dental exam?

During the exam, Dr. Abarca will examine your child's erupted teeth for cavities, gums for infections, and other tissues in the mouth for abnormalities. He will evaluate how your child's teeth fit together (the occlusion) and check to make sure there is enough space for permanent teeth to erupt. He will also evaluate the effects of any childhood habits, such as thumb sucking, pacifier use, or prolonged bottle feeding. At the end of the visit, Dr. Abarca will discuss all of his findings, any necessary treatment plan, and any relevant dental issues to protect your child's oral health and well-being.

What is a pediatric dentist?

A pediatric dentist takes two additional years of specialized training that focuses on children. This gives pediatric dentists the skills they need to build strong, trusting relationships with children, from infants to young adults, and an understanding of their unique dental health needs.

When should my child have their first dental visit?

Your child should visit the dentist before their first birthday. Be sure to tell your child about the visit and its purpose, but be careful how you present it. Avoid using words that cause fear, such as “needle,” “pull,” “drill,” or “hurt.” The first visit rarely requires such things, and even if they were necessary at some point, keep in mind that pediatric dentists are trained to convey information in a non-threatening manner, which helps keep your child calm and comfortable.

Are primary teeth important?

Healthy primary teeth are important for many reasons:

Teeth facilitate proper chewing, which allows for good nutrition and helps develop speech.

We are often asked, “Why put fillings in baby teeth when they are going to fall out anyway?” Baby teeth have two stages of “falling out.” The front teeth fall out between the ages of 6 and 9, and the molars (back teeth) fall out between the ages of 10 and 12.

A beautiful smile improves self-confidence regardless of age.

When should my child have their first dental visit?

Your child should visit the dentist before their first birthday. Be sure to tell your child about the visit and its purpose, but be careful how you present it. Most families bring children to our clinic around one year of age, and this promotes a routine for a cavity-free life!