When Should a Baby See the Dentist? The First Visit Guide

When should a baby first see a dentist?

Plan the first visit for the time after the first tooth appears, and no later than the first birthday. The American Dental Association (ADA) gives this timing on its MouthHealthy site. It also words the advice as within six months after the first tooth appears, but no later than a child’s first birthday.

If your baby is older than that, do not worry. Book a visit now. The goal is to start, not to hit a perfect date.

Why so early, when baby teeth fall out anyway?

Because decay can start as soon as teeth show up. The ADA says that as soon as your baby has teeth, they can get cavities. It adds that tooth decay can affect a child’s ability to eat and sleep, to speak clearly and to learn at school.

Cleveland Clinic notes that baby teeth reserve space for the adult teeth that follow and aid the development of clear speech. An early visit lets a dentist check the first teeth, spot early childhood caries risks and show you how to prevent them. It also lets your child meet the dental team while nothing is wrong.

When does the first tooth usually come in?

Usually around 6 months, with a wide range. The ADA says a baby’s front four teeth usually push through the gums at about 6 months of age, although some children do not have a first tooth until 12 or 14 months. This process is called teething, and the teeth are called baby teeth.

If your baby’s first tooth is late, you can still plan the visit by the first birthday. The ADA’s rule is “after the first tooth, but no later than the first birthday.”

What happens at the first visit?

The visit is short and gentle. The ADA says the dentist will examine your baby to make sure the teeth, jaw, bite and gums are developing as they should, and will check for mouth injuries, cavities or other issues. Depending on your child’s age and number of teeth, the dentist may do a gentle cleaning.

Town Center Dental says it treats “every member of the family, from infants to grandparents” on its Services page. The practice’s dentistry for kids page gives its own description of care for children. Our dentists are general dentists, and the family approach means you can bring your baby to the same office as the rest of the family.

How can I get my baby ready?

A few simple choices make the visit smoother. The ADA suggests an appointment time when your child is usually well-rested, alert and cooperative, and not during naptime. It suggests a light meal before the visit, then brushing, and saving snacks for after so food is not stuck on the teeth during the exam.

1. Pick a time of day when your baby is usually in a good mood.
2. Fill out the patient forms ahead of time if the office sends them.
3. Write down your questions about teething, feeding, pacifiers or thumb sucking.
4. Bring any insurance information.
5. Stay calm and positive. Babies pick up on your mood.

The ADA also says never to use a dental visit as a punishment or threat. Talk about it as a normal, friendly trip.

What can cause decay in a baby?

Sugary habits and shared germs are two causes. The ADA says pacifiers dipped in sugar, honey, juice or sweetened drinks can lead to tooth decay. It also says decay can begin when cavity-causing bacteria pass from saliva in a caregiver’s mouth to the baby. That can happen when a caregiver puts the baby’s feeding spoon in her mouth or cleans a pacifier in her mouth.

None of this is a reason for guilt. It is a reason to ask questions at the first visit. Your dentist can talk with you about bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers and snacks, and what to change if anything needs changing.

What about fluoride for a baby?

Ask your dentist or pediatrician. The ADA says infants and toddlers who do not receive an adequate amount of fluoride may be at increased risk for tooth decay, because fluoride helps make tooth enamel more resistant to decay. It advises discussing your child’s fluoride needs with your dentist or pediatrician. Your family’s tap water, your toothpaste and your child’s risk all play a part, so there is no single answer for every home.

What if my baby cries?

Crying is common and does not mean the visit went badly. The ADA says not to worry if your baby wiggles or cries, because seeing the dentist is a new experience. You and the dental team can work together to calm your child.

How should I clean my baby’s mouth before the visit?

Start in the first days of life. The ADA says to begin cleaning your baby’s mouth in the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth. Once teeth come in, brush them. For children younger than 3, the ADA says to use fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than a smear, or the size of a grain of rice. Ask your dentist if your child needs anything else, such as a fluoride plan. Our first dental visit guide has more detail for parents.

Next step

If your baby has a first tooth or has turned one, it is time for a first visit. Read about dentistry for kids at Town Center Dental, then call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment.