Guidelines for a child's first dental appointment and what to expect.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. This early visit establishes a dental home, identifies risk factors for cavities, and provides parents with preventive care guidance. During the first visit, the dentist performs a gentle examination of the baby's mouth, checks for early signs of decay, assesses jaw development, and discusses feeding habits, fluoride use, and oral hygiene techniques. The visit also helps the child become familiar with the dental environment, reducing anxiety for future appointments.