Updated on: August 14, 2026
First visits to the dentist are an exciting and important time for a little one! Dental visits will be a lifelong journey for your son or daughter, and starting them off with a positive experience is our goal at Sierk Children's Dentistry.
Your little one should begin seeing their Castle Pines or Highlands Ranch children's dentist as soon as their teeth arrive or by their first birthday. This may seem early, but it's never too soon to build relationships! Here are some tips to help parents prepare their kids for their first dental visit, plus what to expect once you're in the chair.
#1 Oral Care Begins Before Teeth Arrive
You can start oral care with your infant by gently wiping their gums off with a warm cloth after feedings. This practice eliminates the bacteria in their mouth and helps them get used to oral care as soon as possible.
When their first baby teeth arrive, you can brush them with a soft infant toothbrush and toothpaste that is safe for them to swallow.
#2 Talk Positively About the Dentist
You can begin to prepare your child for the dentist with stories, coloring pages, and discussions about the dentist, so they know what to expect. Keep it as positive as possible. Even if your own past experiences at the dentist haven't been the best, you want to set your little one up for success when it's their turn.
#3 Know What to Expect During the Appointment
When you arrive, the dentist will likely have you sit in the dental chair and hold your baby or toddler during the exam, which helps keep everyone calm and comfortable. The dentist will carefully check the development of their teeth and examine their gums, lips, tongue, and cheeks for a complete picture of their oral health. If your child has teeth coming in, the dentist or hygienist will gently clean away any plaque or tartar using specialized instruments.
Once the exam and cleaning are complete, we'll walk you through how and when to brush your child's teeth at home. Depending on their needs, we may schedule a follow-up visit in about six months.
#4 Set Up Incentives
As your little one gets older, you can use incentives like small prizes or fun activities to promote positive dental experiences. For example, maybe your three-year-old gets to have a fun outing with you if they have a cavity-free dental checkup.
#5 Lead By Example at Home
You can be the example of exemplary brushing and flossing for your child by letting them watch you at home and supervising their brushing sessions.
Schedule Your Child's First Visit
Is it time for your child's first dental visit? Contact your Highlands Ranch or Castle Pines pediatric dentist at (303) 865-4066 to schedule your appointment. Still deciding on the right dental home for your family? Check out our newcomer's guide to finding a pediatric dentist.