The first dental visit is less about fixing a problem and more about starting a relationship. A calm, short first appointment helps a child feel safe, lets the dentist check that teeth are developing normally, and gives you practical advice on cleaning and feeding while the habits are still forming.
When to book: the Australian Dental Association recommends a first dental visit when the first tooth appears, or by the child's first birthday — whichever comes first.
Why start so early?
By the first birthday most children have several teeth. Early visits let the dentist check development and give advice before problems start, identify habits such as thumb-sucking or bottle use that can affect teeth, and talk through cleaning and diet. Decay can begin in early childhood, so prevention from the start matters.
Preparing your child
- Talk about the visit positively and matter-of-factly — keep it brief
- Read a picture book or play dentist at home
- Bring your child to your own check-up first if that is possible
- Book a time when your child is usually well-rested
- Bring favourite comfort items and any relevant medical information
- Avoid words that suggest pain; talk about counting teeth
What happens at the visit
Your dentist will ask about health, drinking, eating and habits, then look in your child's mouth — sometimes in a "knee-to-knee" position or with your child sitting on your lap. The visit may include counting teeth, checking the soft tissues and, if needed, a gentle clean. You will get advice on brushing (with the right toothpaste amount for your child's age) and whether fluoride varnish or other prevention is recommended.
If your child is shy or upset, the first visit may be shorter than planned. That is normal. Our children's dentistry page explains how we approach nervous children and what follow-up visits involve.
Looking after teeth between visits
- Start cleaning as soon as teeth appear
- Help with brushing until your child is able to do it well
- Keep sugary drinks and snacks to mealtimes where possible
- Avoid putting a baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice
- Ask about fluoride and the right toothpaste for your child's age
Book your child's first visit
Tell us your child's age and anything they are anxious about. We can plan a short, gentle first appointment.
Related: children's dentistry, how often to visit the dentist.