A first birthday comes with cake, candles, and maybe a smash cake photo shoot. It’s also a great time for something you might not expect: your baby’s first dental visit.

At Every Little Tooth in Chesapeake, we often hear, “Isn’t that too early?” Here’s why it isn’t, and what that first visit looks like.

What the Experts Recommend

The American Dental Association recommends that a child’s first dental visit take place within six months after the first tooth appears, and no later than the first birthday. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry gives similar guidance.

Why So Early?

Baby teeth are small, but they do big jobs. The ADA explains that they help children chew, speak, and smile, and help adult teeth come in correctly. As soon as a baby has teeth, cavities can develop, so early visits help catch small concerns before they become big ones.

An early visit is also a chance for parents to ask questions:

• How do I clean my baby’s teeth and gums?
• How much toothpaste should we use?
• Is my child’s teething normal?
• What about bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers, or thumb sucking?

What Happens at the First Visit

The first visit is short, gentle, and all about getting comfortable. At our office, it usually includes:

• A friendly hello. We take things slow and meet your child where they are.
• A quick look. The ADA notes that a parent may sit in the dental chair with their child on their lap. The dentist checks for injuries, cavities, and how the teeth and jaw are developing.
• Tips for daily care. You’ll leave with simple ways to care for your child’s teeth at home.
• Time for questions. We’ll talk about brushing, diet, fluoride, and habits, and share tips that fit your family.

How to Prepare

• Practice at home. The ADA suggests talking positively about the visit, practicing opening wide, and reading books about first dental visits.
• Bring a comfort item. A favorite toy or stuffed animal assistant is always welcome.
• Bring a parent or legal guardian. For your child’s first visit, a parent or legal guardian who can sign forms and make care decisions needs to come along.
• Fill out forms ahead of time. The ADA notes it’s often easier to complete patient forms at home.
• Stay positive. Simple, happy words like “The dentist will count your teeth!” help.

Caring for Baby Teeth at Home

• Wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze pad after feedings, starting in the first days after birth (ADA).
• When the first tooth appears, brush twice a day with a child’s size toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice (ADA guidance for children under 3).
• Put only formula, milk, or breast milk in bottles, and have your baby finish bedtime and naptime bottles before going to bed (ADA).
• Start cleaning between teeth once two teeth touch (ADA).

A Gentle Start for Lifelong Smiles

We believe the first dental visit is a BIG deal. It’s where lifelong smiles begin. Our team specializes in pediatric care, which means patience, playfulness, and lots of encouragement for every little dino. Every child is different, so call us with any questions about your child’s first visit.

Ready for your baby’s first visit? Call Now: 757-800-1011. Our Chesapeake team can’t wait to meet your family.