What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit

When Should Your Child First See a Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first visit by age one or within six months of their first tooth coming in — whichever comes first. That might sound early, but those first visits are all about education, prevention, and helping your child get comfortable with the idea of visiting the dentist.

We welcome kids of all ages at our Spearfish office, and tailor every visit to the child’s age, personality, and comfort level.

What Happens at the First Visit?

A first visit is usually short and sweet. Here’s what to expect:

• A gentle visual exam of the teeth and gums
  
• Discussion of brushing and nutrition habits
  
• Tips on teething, thumb-sucking, and pacifier use
  
• Time for you to ask questions or talk through concerns
  
• An introduction to the dental chair and tools — no pressure or pushy procedures
  

Depending on your child’s age and comfort, we may also perform a quick cleaning or fluoride treatment. But most importantly, we’re focused on building trust and helping your child associate the dentist with a safe, positive place.

Learn more about our approach to children’s dentistry.

How to Prepare

You can help your child feel more confident by:

• Reading books or watching videos about visiting the dentist
  
• Role-playing a dental visit at home
  
• Avoiding words like “hurt” or “shot” — we keep things positive and age-appropriate
  
• Bringing a favorite toy or blanket to the appointment
  

And don’t worry — even if your child cries or feels unsure at first, that’s completely normal. We’re patient, kind, and experienced at helping kids feel comfortable in their own time.