Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future. At this visit, you will hold your baby in your lap, and the pediatric dentist will examine the mouth and make sure the teeth and gums are developing normally. He or she will also discuss proper oral hygiene so that the teeth will erupt into a healthy mouth. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (also know as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Your child risks severe decay from using a bottle during naps or at night or when they nurse continuously from the breast. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily, learn to speak clearly and smile with confidence.