Your child's first dental visit

A child's first meeting with the dentist should happen on a calm day, before any pain starts. Then the clinic is remembered with curiosity rather than fear.

When?

When the first tooth comes through or around the first birthday. At this age the visit is mostly a short check and some care advice for parents.

Preparing at home

• Instead of words that suggest fear, like "it won't hurt", say "we're going to count your teeth".
• Book a time when your child is well rested.
• They can bring their favourite toy.

At the first appointment

We introduce the chair, the light and the mirror. If your child agrees, we count their teeth and show them cleaning and fluoride. We never force anything; if needed, we carry on at the next visit.