Your Child's First Dental Visit

Welcome to the world of parenting — let's talk dental! Between sleep deprivation, messy houses, spilt milk and loads of laundry, there's a lot to deal with as a parent. Here's the science behind a healthy mouth for your little one.

Birth to age 1

While there are no teeth present, wipe the gums twice a day or after feeding with a moistened soft towel and massage the gums. No toothbrush or toothpaste required yet. Cold teething rings and infant-safe textured chew mitts are soothing at this age, and there's no harm in a pacifier — just remember to offer sterilized pacifiers to avoid germ transmission.

A not-so-fun fact: gingivitis and its bacteria are transmissible. The best way to avoid passing along your oral bacteria is by not sharing utensils or toothbrushes with your child, and by never cleaning their pacifier in your mouth.

Swollen or red gums can be normal at this age — teething typically starts around 4 to 6 months, but teeth don't read the textbook; they come when they're ready. Once teeth have erupted, use a silicone finger brush or infant toothbrush twice a day. No toothpaste needed yet; plain water works just fine, as children this young have trouble spitting toothpaste out.

It's also worth finding out whether your area has fluoridated water — simply call your municipality. A lack of fluoride can put your child's teeth at risk of decay, and a fluoride rinse, varnish or supplement may be recommended.

12 to 24 months

It's time to start thinking about visiting the dentist. The Ontario Dental Association recommends an initial visit six months after the eruption of the first tooth. This informational appointment gives you the knowledge to properly care for your child's teeth and lets us review their development.

At this point it's best to begin weaning your child off a bottle or pacifier and encourage drinking from a cup, to avoid developmental changes to the jaw and rotation or tipping of the front teeth. Is it easy? No — but it gets harder the older the toddler gets. A few hard nights and there you have it.

This is also a good time to discuss fluoridated toothpaste options with the dentist or hygienist. Fluoride is completely safe at this age when used appropriately. And as teeth start to erupt, if you notice any questionable areas or have questions about oral hygiene, it's best to see us as early as possible. We love little ones, and they love us!