When Should My Baby Have Their First Dental Visit?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s first dental visit should happen by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in—whichever comes first. We know that may seem early, but starting a first visit infant care routine helps prevent problems and sets the stage for lifelong oral health. Remember, baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth, setting the foundation for chewing, speaking, and eventually guiding permanent teeth into place.

What Happens During the First Visit?

Your baby’s first dental visit is about introducing them (and you!) to our office and getting off to a great start with infant oral care. Think of it as a “well-baby checkup” for your child’s teeth. We’ll take the time to chat with you, answer your questions, and provide personalized advice. You’re welcome to sit with your baby during the exam—we want you both to feel comfortable and supported.

Here’s what you can expect during the first visit:

• A Gentle Examination  

We will gently examine your baby’s gums, teeth (if they’ve already started coming in), and mouth overall health to check for any early signs of decay or other potential issues.

• Oral Health Education: We’ll discuss proper cleaning techniques, teething tips, and what to expect as those tiny teeth erupt. This is also a great time to ask about bottle feeding, pacifier use, or thumb-sucking and how they might affect your baby’s oral development.
• Introduction to Dental Care: If necessary, we’ll demonstrate how to clean your baby’s teeth and gums using a soft, damp cloth or an infant toothbrush. We also recommend fluoride and cavity-prevention measures tailored to your child’s needs.
• Creating a Positive Experience: We want to help your baby view the dentist as a friendly, non-scary place. The first visit focuses on making memories—no one is too young to start feeling comfortable in the dental chair!

Why Early Dental Visits Matter

Starting dental care early allows us to catch and address potential issues before they become more significant. Baby teeth might only be temporary, but they play an essential role in speech development, helping your child learn to chew food properly and ensuring enough space in the jaw for adult teeth.

Establishing a relationship with a pediatric dentist also builds trust and familiarity as your child grows. By coming in early and keeping up with regular checkups, we can work together to help your child avoid dental anxiety and enjoy a healthy, happy smile for life.

First-Visit Infant Care in Hermiston

Your baby’s first-visit infant care in Hermiston is an exciting milestone, and we’re honored to be part of it. If you’re ready to book an appointment with Dr. Shane Schmidt or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us. Advanced Pediatric Dentistry of Hermiston is committed to providing exceptional care in a warm, welcoming environment—because your child deserves the very best.

Together, we can set your little one on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our children’s dental services include tongue-tie treatment, sedation dentistry, and more! We can’t wait to meet you and your baby!