Pediatric dental services
Your Child's First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by age one. At Kids Dentist Plus, first visits are short, gentle and focused on helping both you and your child feel at ease.
Medi-Cal accepted
First visit by age one
Short, gentle visits that help kids feel at ease.
Why start by age one?
Cavities can begin as soon as the first tooth appears. An early visit lets us spot problems before they hurt, apply fluoride to protect new teeth, and answer your questions about teething, feeding and brushing.
Early, positive visits also help children get comfortable with the dentist, which makes every future checkup easier.
What happens at the first visit
Most first visits are quick and upbeat. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include:
Getting acquainted
We say hello, show your child around and give them time to feel comfortable. Babies and toddlers can often sit on a parent's lap.
A gentle exam
We check the teeth, gums, jaw and bite, and look for early signs of decay.
Cleaning and fluoride
If your child is ready, we clean the teeth and apply fluoride to help prevent cavities.
Answers for parents
We talk about teething, pacifiers, thumb sucking, bottles, snacks and how to brush your child's teeth.
How to prepare your child
- Talk about the dentist in a positive, simple way, like "The dentist will count your teeth."
- Read a picture book or play pretend dentist with a favorite stuffed animal.
- Book a time of day when your child is usually rested and fed.
- Bring your child's insurance card (or Medi-Cal BIC and dental plan ID card) and a list of medications and health conditions.
- Skip words like "hurt" or "shot," and let us explain things in kid-friendly language.
New parents often ask how to clean a baby's mouth: wipe the gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once the first tooth appears, brush twice a day with a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Insurance and Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal dental benefits generally cover children from infancy, including exams and fluoride treatments. Most dental insurance plans cover checkups for young children too, and we'll check your benefits before the visit.
Learn more in our Medi-Cal dental guide or read about preventive dentistry for kids.
First dental visit FAQs
When should my baby first see a dentist?
Within six months of the first tooth coming in, and no later than their first birthday.
My child is older and hasn't been to a dentist yet. Is that okay?
It's never too late to start. Call us to schedule a first visit at any age, and we'll make it a positive experience.
How should I clean my baby's teeth?
Wipe the gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once teeth appear, brush twice a day with a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Can parents be in the room?
Babies and toddlers can often sit on a parent's lap during the exam. Ask our team what works best for your child's age.
Does Medi-Cal cover a baby's first dental visit?
Usually, yes. Medi-Cal generally covers dental care from infancy, and we'll confirm your child's benefits before the visit.
First visits at every office
Choose the Kids Dentist Plus office closest to home:
Book your child's first visit
Call (916) 226-6767, Monday–Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, or register online.