When Should Your Child First See the Dentist?
Short answer: by their first birthday. Pediatric and dental organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommend a first dental visit by age 1, or within about six months after the first tooth appears. At New View Dental in Perrysburg, we see children starting at age 1.
Book your child's first visit: 419-442-7700 · Mon–Thu, 9am–4pm
Why start so early?
Baby teeth matter. They help children chew, speak clearly and hold space for adult teeth. Early visits help us:
Spot early signs of decay, which can start soon after the first teeth come in
Check how teeth and jaws are developing
Show parents how to brush and floss a small child's teeth
Answer questions about thumb-sucking, pacifiers, bottles and teething
Let your child get used to the dental office before they ever need treatment
A first visit that's calm and positive sets the tone for years of easy checkups.
What happens at the first visit
The first visit is short and gentle. For very young children, it often happens with your child sitting on your lap.
We say hello. We give your child a chance to look around and get comfortable.
We take a quick look. We check the teeth, gums and bite.
We clean if needed. For toddlers, this may be a gentle wipe or brush.
We talk with you. You'll get tips for brushing, diet and habits, plus a recommended schedule for the next visit.
Most children need regular checkups, and some need visits more often. We'll recommend a schedule for your child.
How to prepare your child
Keep it positive. Use simple words like "count your teeth" rather than "shot" or "hurt."
Pick a good time of day. A morning visit after a nap often works best for toddlers.
Read or play "dentist" at home. Take turns counting each other's teeth.
Bring a comfort item. A favorite toy or blanket can help.
Stay calm yourself. Kids pick up on our nerves. If you feel anxious about the dentist, that's okay; we'll take care of you too.
Caring for little teeth at home
Wipe your baby's gums with a soft, damp cloth before teeth come in.
When the first tooth appears, brush twice a day with a soft, child-size toothbrush. Ask us how much toothpaste to use for your child's age.
Don't put your child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
Limit sugary drinks and snacks between meals.
Start flossing when two teeth touch.
When to call sooner
Call us if you notice white or brown spots on the teeth, your child complains of tooth pain, or a tooth is chipped or knocked out after a fall. We offer same-day emergency visits, including for new patients.
Care for the whole family
Parents and grandparents can come to the same office. Our family dentistry covers cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions and dentures. We work with Paramount, Delta Dental, Cigna, Always Care, Ameritas, Anthem BCBS, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, Principal, Sun Life and United Concordia, and we offer financing through Cherry, CareCredit and Sunbit. See payment plans and insurance.
Schedule your child's first visit in Perrysburg
Dr. Daniel Saffo and Dr. Christina Saffo, who are raising their own family in Perrysburg, see children and adults from Perrysburg, Maumee, Rossford, Toledo and nearby. We're at 27072 Carronade Dr, Suite C, Perrysburg, OH 43551, open Monday–Thursday, 9am–4pm.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Ask your dentist or pediatrician about your child's needs.
