The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is early childhood caries (also know as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Your child runs the risk of severe decay from using a bottle during naps, 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. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.