Protecting Your Baby's Smile
Children should visit a dentist by age 1 or within six months after their first tooth comes in. Visiting the dentist by age 1 helps you:
Get to know
the dentist.
Stop cavities
that can cause your child pain and serious health problems.
Know who to call
if your child has an emergency.
Save money
by learning healthy habits and how to care for your baby's teeth.
Baby's First Visit to the Dentist
At the first checkup, the dentist will:
- Check your child for cavities.
- Show you how to brush and floss your child's teeth.
- Teach you about food, drinks and habits that can cause cavities.
- Talk about fluoride.
- Check your child's bite, growth and development.
- Give you information on how to prevent accidents as your baby grows.
Dentist By 1
See a dentist within six months of getting the first tooth or before the first birthday.
Clean
Clean your baby's gums with a damp washcloth after eating and drinking.
Brush
Use a soft toothbrush and water to brush your baby's teeth and gums. Brush in soft, gentle circles two times a day.
No Bottle in Bed
Don't let your baby sleep with a bottle at naptime or at night.
Give Milk or Water
Give your child milk or water and avoid drinks with added sugar, such as soda or juice.
Don't Share Forks, Spoons or Food
Sharing utensils can spread germs that cause cavities.
Delta Dental of Missouri is a nonprofit 501(c)(4) organization with a social mission to improve oral health in the communities we serve. Delta Dental of Missouri accomplishes this mission by expanding oral health education and awareness, and increasing access to oral health care. Through numerous programs and initiatives, such as Dentist By 1™ and the Land of Smiles®, Delta Dental of Missouri touches tens of thousands of lives each year.
Click here for more information on Delta Dental in the community, or email news@deltadentalmo.com.