We recommend booking your child’s first dental appointment by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing—whichever comes first. Early visits help your child become familiar with the dental environment and allow us to monitor their oral development from the start.
This recommendation aligns with the Dental Check by One (DCby1) campaign, launched by the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD) in partnership with the Office of the Chief Dental Officer for England. The campaign emphasizes the importance of early dental visits to ensure that all children see a dentist as their teeth come through, or by their first birthday, at the latest.
Early dental visits help to:
Build Trust: A calm, friendly introduction to the dentist reduces fear and anxiety in the future.
Catch Problems Early: We can spot early signs of tooth decay or developmental concerns before they become serious.
Educate Parents: We’ll guide you on proper brushing, teething care, diet, and habits like thumb-sucking or bottle feeding at night.
Establish a Routine: Children who start dental care early are more likely to maintain healthy habits as they grow.
According to the DCby1 campaign, early dental appointments provide parents with valuable advice on topics such as brushing baby’s teeth, maintaining a healthy diet, and the importance of regular dental checks.
We keep first visits simple and pressure-free. Here’s what to expect:
A warm welcome and a chance for your child to explore the space
A gentle examination of your child’s teeth, gums, bite, and jaw
Tips for brushing and caring for baby teeth
Time for questions—you’ll never feel rushed
If your child is comfortable, we may also clean their teeth or apply a fluoride varnish.
The DCby1 campaign notes that sometimes the best way to look into a baby’s mouth is to carry out a lap-to-lap examination, where the baby is lowered backwards from your lap into the lap of the dentist. This position can provide the dentist with a good view of the baby’s mouth.
Talk positively about the visit—avoid words like “hurt” or “needle”
Read books or watch videos about going to the dentist
Schedule a morning appointment when your child is rested
Bring a favourite toy or comfort item
At Dr. Mali Dental Clinic, we’re here to support your child at every stage of their dental journey. A great first visit sets the foundation for a positive attitude toward oral health—one that lasts well into adulthood.
📍 Ready to schedule your child’s first appointment? Contact us today—we can’t wait to meet your little one!
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