The short answer
Take your child to the dentist once the first teeth come through, and by their first birthday. The first visit is short: the dentist looks at the teeth and gums, often with your child on your lap, and gives you advice on brushing, food and drink. Early visits help your child get used to the dentist before anything needs treating.
Book a children's dental visitMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
What happens at the visit
The dentist talks to your child, counts the teeth, checks for early decay and looks at the gums and bite. There is usually no treatment at a first visit. You can ask about teething, thumb-sucking, dummies and bottles.
Looking after baby teeth at home
Baby teeth hold the space for adult teeth and need to last for years.
- Brush twice a day as soon as the first tooth appears
- A smear of fluoride toothpaste under three, a pea-sized amount from three to six
- Help with brushing until about age seven
- Keep sweet food and drinks to mealtimes; do not put your child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice
Signs to book sooner
Brown or white chalky spots on the teeth, a swelling on the gum, a child who will not chew on one side, or any knock to a tooth.
Common questions
How do I prepare my child?
Keep it ordinary. Read a picture book about the dentist, avoid words like hurt or injection, and choose a time when your child is not tired or hungry.
What if my child cries?
That is common and fine. The dentist goes at your child's pace, and a parent stays throughout.
Do baby teeth with decay need treatment?
Often, yes, because decay can cause pain and infection and can affect the adult tooth. The dentist explains the options.
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Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Children's teeth. NHS. Patient information.
- Tooth decay. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 4 November 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.