Many parents wait until a child complains of pain, but early visits are about prevention and helping the child feel at ease with the dentist.

The right age

A first visit is recommended by the first birthday, or when the first tooth appears, and then every six months or as your dentist advises.

What happens at the first visit

A gentle look at the teeth and gums, advice on brushing, fluoride and diet, and a chance for your child to get used to the clinic. Most first visits involve no treatment at all.

Why baby teeth matter

Baby teeth help children chew and speak and hold space for the permanent teeth. Decay in them can cause pain and infection that affects the teeth growing underneath.

How to prepare your child

Talk about the visit positively, avoid words like 'pain' or 'injection', and book a time of day when your child is usually rested.

Prevention such as fluoride varnish and fissure sealants protects children's teeth before problems start.

This article is general information and does not replace an examination.