Healthy teeth.A first visit around the age of one, or when the first tooth appears, is mostly about building trust. There is rarely any treatment involved.
How to prepare
- Speak about the dentist in a positive, matter-of-fact way
- Avoid words such as 'pain', 'needle' or 'hurt'
- Schedule the visit when your child is rested and not hungry
- Bring a favourite toy or comfort item
- Tell us about any habits like thumb sucking or night-time bottles
What we do
We let your child sit in the chair, look at the lights and the mirror and have a gentle look at the teeth. We also give you simple tips on brushing, food and fluoride.
What you can do at home
Help your child brush twice a day, keep sugary snacks to mealtimes, and bring them for regular check-ups so the dentist always feels familiar and friendly.
This article offers general information and does not replace a dental examination.
