Your Child's First Dental Visit - What to Expect

Posted on 8/15/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

A young woman supports her baby daughter in a dentist chair while a dentist inspects her child's mouth.

It's exciting to watch your little one grow and develop, and a key part of their development is taking care of their oral health. That's where your child's first dental visit comes in! This important milestone lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

When Should My Child's First Dental Visit Be?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child's first dental visit should be scheduled within six months of their first tooth erupting, but no later than their first birthday. Early visits allow us to monitor your child's oral development, identify any potential problems early on, and establish good oral hygiene habits.

What Happens During the First Dental Visit?

The first dental visit is all about making your child feel comfortable and at ease. We understand that visiting the dentist can be a new and unfamiliar experience for little ones, so we take extra care to create a welcoming and friendly environment.

During the visit, we will gently examine your child's teeth and gums, looking for any signs of decay or other problems. We will also discuss your child's oral hygiene habits and answer any questions you may have.

Here's a typical breakdown of what you can expect during the first dental visit:

•	Introduction and tour: We'll start by introducing ourselves and giving your child a tour of the office. This helps them become familiar with the surroundings and feel more comfortable.
•	Examination: We will gently examine your child's teeth and gums, checking for any signs of decay, developmental issues, or other problems.
•	Cleaning: If necessary, we will gently clean your child's teeth to remove any plaque or debris.
•	Discussion: We will discuss your child's oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and dietary choices. We will also answer any questions you may have about your child's oral health.

Tips for a Successful First Dental Visit

Here are a few things you can do to help make your child's first dental visit a positive experience:

•	Talk about the visit positively: Describe the dentist's office as a fun and exciting place where your child can learn about taking care of their teeth.
•	Read books or watch videos about going to the dentist: This can help your child understand what to expect and feel more prepared.
•	Role-play: Pretend to be the dentist and examine your child's teeth. This can help them get used to the idea of having their mouth examined.
•	Bring a favorite toy or blanket: This can help your child feel more comfortable and secure during the visit.
•	Be patient and understanding: Remember, this is a new experience for your child. Be patient and understanding if they are nervous or apprehensive.

The Importance of Early Dental Care

Early dental care is essential for your child's overall health and well-being. Regular dental visits can help prevent cavities, identify and treat oral health problems early on, and establish good oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime.

By taking your child for their first dental visit, you are investing in their future oral health and setting them on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Remember, a healthy smile starts early!

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Our community of dentistry superheroes prioritizes smiles above all else—theirs AND yours. That’s why we make it easy to find the location that’s right for you. Learn what to expect for your first visit, virtually tour the space, meet the dentists, and discover location-specific specialties and resources below.

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NC’s Premier network of pediatric dental practices is committed to delivering a full suite of trusted, comfortable, and informative oral care services. With kid-centric spaces and experiences, we teach kids how to care for their smiles.

About NC Pediatric Dentistry - Expert Kids' Dental Care
NC Pediatric Dentistry offers kid-friendly dental care across NC. We provide fun, safe, and educational experiences for children. Learn more today!
NC Pediatric Dentistry, 202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200, Mooresville, NC 28117 / tbd / ncpediatricdentistry.com / 8/27/2025 / Tags: pediatric dentist /

Your Child's First Dental Visit - What to Expect

When Should My Child's First Dental Visit Be?

What Happens During the First Dental Visit?

Tips for a Successful First Dental Visit

The Importance of Early Dental Care

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.

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A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE