101 Ridgely Avenue, Suite 12-B · Annapolis, MD
Annapolis Dental CareBook online
Call 410-267-0766
Home / Patient education

Annapolis Dental Care

Your child’s first dental visit

When to begin dental visits and how to make the first appointment feel familiar.

Annapolis Dental Care · Published October 9, 2026

Browse all patient guides

When should we start?

The American Dental Association recommends a first dental visit within six months of the first tooth appearing, and no later than the first birthday. Early visits give parents a chance to discuss development and everyday care before problems arise.

Prepare with simple language

Talk positively about the visit. Practice opening wide, read a book about a dental visit, and let your child ask questions. Avoid promising that nothing will hurt or describing another person’s difficult experience.

What to tell the team

Share your child’s medical history, medicines, feeding habits, and any concerns about brushing or tooth development. Tell us about prior dental experiences and what helps your child feel comfortable. Our team can explain the planned visit when you schedule.

What to ask

Ask about brushing technique, fluoride toothpaste, thumb or pacifier habits, and the right timing for the next checkup. We offer family dentistry for all ages; call before booking if you need help choosing your child’s appointment.

Explore care at our office

View the related dental service or find directions and office hours.

Sources and further reading

General education does not replace your dentist’s assessment or the instructions provided for your treatment.

Related guides