The most common question: "Doctor, at what age should I first bring my child?" The answer: at 1 year, or within 6 months of the first tooth.
The short answer
- 0-12 months: no scheduled visit needed unless something looks abnormal.
- 12 months: first official visit.
- 2-3 years: visits every 6 months, becomes routine.
- 6-7 years: first orthodontic evaluation.
- 12 years: orthodontic re-evaluation.
Why the first visit at age 1 matters
- Familiarization — child sees the office without pain. Prevents dental phobia.
- Parent education — proper brushing, fluoride toothpaste.
- Early detection — "bottle cavities" can appear at 18 months.
- Trust building — your child sees you as their doctor.
What we do at the first visit
At 1-2 years: child sits in your arms. We play with the mirror, count teeth. Quick inspection (30-60 sec), stickers and a toothbrush gift. Total 10-15 minutes. We never force.
How to prepare your child
- DO NOT use negative words ("fear", "pain", "injection").
- DO NOT promise "it won't hurt" — broken promise at first discomfort.
- DO NOT show your own fears — children sense it.
- READ books about the dentist together.
- PLAY "tooth doctor" at home.
- SCHEDULE in the morning — children are more cooperative.
Common mistakes
1. "Baby teeth fall out anyway"
False. They maintain space for permanent teeth. An untreated cavity can damage the permanent tooth bud.
2. Bottle of juice before sleep
Top cause of "bottle cavities". After age 1, the night bottle should only contain water.
3. Waiting for "more teeth"
The longer you wait, the higher the chance the first visit will be stressful.
4. Fluoride-free paste after age 2
After age 2, use 1000 ppm fluoride paste, rice-grain sized. Fluoride-free pastes don't protect.
Conclusion
A first visit at age 1 changes your child's relationship with oral health for life. Booking is free.
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