When does a baby first see a dentist

A baby should have a first dental visit when the first tooth appears or by the first birthday, whichever comes first.

The first visit is an introduction to oral care, not only a response to pain. The dentist examines the gums, erupted teeth, bite, oral tissues, and risk factors such as frequent sugary drinks, night feeding patterns, enamel defects, and family difficulties with brushing.

Clean the gums with a clean damp cloth before teeth erupt, then brush erupted teeth with a small soft brush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste. Avoid putting a baby to sleep with a bottle containing milk or a sweet drink, and bring feeding and teething questions to the visit.

Arrange an earlier dental assessment for a chipped or discolored tooth, tooth pain, swelling, trauma, bleeding that does not settle, or difficulty feeding. A baby with facial swelling, fever, or trouble breathing needs urgent medical care.

Ask how to brush the child’s teeth, which toothpaste amount is appropriate, how feeding affects decay risk, and when the next check should occur. Ask whether enamel appearance or eruption pattern needs monitoring.