When should my child first see the dentist?

A common recommendation is a first visit when the first tooth appears, or by the first birthday. Early visits are mostly about getting comfortable and spotting problems before they start.

Treatment room at Omega Dental and Cosmetics with a dental chair, overhead light and ceiling-mounted screen

What happens at a first visit

Step 01

Getting comfortable

Your child can sit on your lap, ride the chair and meet the team. No pressure.

Step 02

A quick look

We count teeth, check gums and look for early signs of decay.

Step 03

Tips for home

Brushing, toothpaste, bottles and snacks, tailored to your child’s age.

Why baby teeth matter

Baby teeth fall out, but they still matter while they’re here.

Helping your child feel ready

A few small things make a big difference.

Check what you're eligible for

Many families are eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, which covers basic dental services for eligible children. We check eligibility before treatment.

See our fees and payment options, or have our full fee guide emailed to you.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. This page is general information only and not a substitute for an examination. Individual results vary.

Common questions

That’s normal. We go at their pace, and even a short first visit helps.

Ask us at the visit. Advice depends on your child’s age.

Yes. Ask when booking and we’ll try to line up appointments.

Related Treatments

Children's dentistry

Check-ups and treatment from first teeth onwards.

General dentistry

Check-ups, cleans, fillings and emergencies.

Child Dental Benefits Schedule

Who’s eligible and what’s covered.

Book a first visit

A relaxed, short appointment to help your child feel at home.