Gesundes Gebiss: Wann steht der allererste Zahnarztbesuch fürs Kind an?

Maintaining good dental health for children begins with their very first dentist visit. To ensure your baby or toddler's teeth are healthy, regular dental check-ups known as Z1 to Z6 are essential. Since 2026, these Z- examinations have been included in the Yellow Book, which is a reference for dental care. The initial examination, Z1, is scheduled between the sixth and ninth months of a child's life.

During this visit, parents receive comprehensive guidance from professionals, as explained by Johanna Kant from the Federal Association of Pediatric Dentists. The examination is typically brief, focusing primarily on advising parents. The primary goal of these Z- examinations is to detect early signs of early childhood caries, allowing for timely intervention.

Moreover, dentists aim to familiarize children with the dentist's office from an early age. This is achieved through various playful and comforting measures, such as examining children in the "Hoppe-Reiter position" and involving stuffed animals or dolls in the process. As children grow older, they can bring their favorite plush toy or a hand puppet to the appointment.

By the end of the visit, children often receive a small plastic mirror for their dentist's kit, making the experience more enjoyable. If there isn't a pediatric dentist available, it's important to know that any general dentist can examine a small child. Parents should inquire with their own dentist about arranging a visit for their child.