Your child's first dental visit: what to expect
When to book, what happens in the chair, and simple ways to help your child feel ready.
Book your child's first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth coming in. The visit is short and gentle: the dentist counts and checks the teeth, looks at the gums and bite, and talks with you about brushing, bottles, snacks and habits. Most children sit on a parent's lap.
When to book
The Canadian Dental Association recommends a first dental visit within six months of the first tooth, or by 12 months of age. That might feel early, but it means your child's first visit is a friendly look-around rather than a visit for a problem.
If your child is older and hasn't been yet, that's fine; book now. It's never too late to start.
What happens at the visit
For babies and toddlers, the visit usually happens with your child on your lap, facing you, while the dentist gently looks in from behind ("knee-to-knee"). It takes only a few minutes.
- Counting and checking the teeth for early signs of decay
- Looking at the gums, tongue and how the jaws are growing
- Checking habits such as thumb-sucking or soother use
- Showing you how to brush your child's teeth
- Talking about bottles, sippy cups, snacks and fluoride
How to prepare your child
- Book a time of day when your child is usually rested and fed
- Read a picture book or watch a short video about visiting the dentist
- Use positive words; avoid "hurt", "needle" or "drill"
- Bring a favourite toy or comfort item
- Let us know in advance if your child is nervous
Caring for baby teeth at home
- Wipe your baby's gums with a soft cloth before teeth come in
- Brush teeth twice a day as soon as they appear, with a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste under age 3
- Don't put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice
- Offer water between meals and keep sweet foods to mealtimes
- Lift your child's lip once a month to check for white or brown spots
Frequently asked questions
Why do baby teeth matter if they fall out?
Baby teeth help children chew, speak and smile, and they hold space for adult teeth. Decay in baby teeth can cause pain and infection.
Will my child have X-rays at the first visit?
Usually not. X-rays are taken only when needed, once the back teeth are touching or if there's a concern.
Is the first visit covered?
Most insurance plans cover children's exams, and many children qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan. We check coverage before the visit.
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Trusted health information
General information only; not a substitute for an exam. Reviewed by Dr. Sayeh Maralani, DDS, general dentist. Last updated 2026-11-03.
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