When Should Your Child First See the Dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visit within six months of their first tooth coming in, or by their first birthday. Starting early helps your child get comfortable at the dentist and lets problems like early cavities be caught while they are small and easy to treat.

Why the First Visit Matters

  • Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth and help with chewing and speech
  • Cavities can start as soon as teeth appear
  • Early visits help children feel relaxed at the dentist
  • Parents get tips on brushing, teething, feeding and fluoride

What Happens at the First Visit

The first visit is short and gentle. Your child may sit on your lap. The dentist will look at your child’s teeth and gums, check how teeth are coming in, and talk with you about cleaning, diet and habits such as thumb-sucking or soothers. If needed, a fluoride treatment may be suggested.

How to Prepare Your Child

  • Book a time of day when your child is usually rested
  • Talk about the visit in a positive, simple way
  • Read a picture book about going to the dentist
  • Bring a favourite toy for comfort
  • Avoid words like “hurt” or “needle”

Caring for Your Child’s Teeth at Home

  • Wipe baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth before teeth come in
  • Brush teeth twice a day as soon as they appear, using a soft child-sized brush
  • Ask your dentist about the right amount of fluoride toothpaste for your child’s age
  • Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice
  • Limit sugary snacks and drinks between meals
  • Help with brushing until your child can do it well on their own, usually around age 6 to 8

How Often Should Children See the Dentist?

Most children should have a checkup about every six months. Your dentist may suggest a different schedule based on your child’s needs.

Family Dentistry in Oakville

Shore Side Dentistry is a family practice in downtown Oakville, and our dentists see patients of all ages, including young children. Dr. Lidia Baldassarra enjoys treating patients of all ages, including young children. See everything we offer on our children’s dentistry page, or learn more about our family dentistry.

Ready to book your child’s first visit? Call us at 905-842-2364 or request an appointment online. Our office is at 345 Lakeshore Rd E #401 in downtown Oakville.

Please note: This article is general information to help you understand common dental topics. It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an exam. Every mouth is different, so please book a visit or call 905-842-2364 so one of our dentists can look at your situation and talk through your options.

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Meet Our Dentists

Shore Side Dentistry has cared for Oakville families since 1990. Our four dentists, including a certified specialist in periodontics, work together in one office on Lakeshore Road East.

Peter Taylor

Dr. Peter Taylor

Principal Dentist

dr-kokosis

Dr. Tina Kokosis

Certified Specialist in Periodontics

dr-liu

Dr. Christine Liu

Family Dentist

Lidia-Baldassarra

Dr. Lidia Baldassarra

Family Dentist

Areas We Serve

Our office at 345 Lakeshore Rd E #401 in downtown Oakville welcomes patients from across Halton: Central Oakville · Bronte Village · Burlington · Milton. See all service areas.

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