At What Age Should Children Begin Going To The Dentist?

Parenting can feel overwhelming at times. It can be difficult to know how to best care for your child and their overall health and wellness. First time parents may know when well-child visits and immunizations should occur for their babies and toddlers. But when should dental checkups begin? 

If you’re unsure about the right age to take your child to the dentist for the first time, read on to learn what pediatric dentists recommend for early dental care to achieve optimal oral health. 

Best Age for the First Dental Visit 

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children have their first dental visit by or around the time of their first birthday. By this time most children have at least one visible tooth that should be cleaned and examined.

What to Expect From the First Dental Visit

The goal of the first dental visit is primarily to introduce your child to the experience of going to the dentist. 

• Oral evaluation. An assessment of your baby’s oral health will be performed to identify any potential concerns and establish a baseline for future appointments. 
• Teeth cleaning. Any visible teeth will be gently cleaned to remove any plaque buildup that may be present. 
• Education about oral hygiene at home. Your dentist will provide information on how to best care for your baby’s teeth at home according to what is appropriate for their age. 

The mood of the first visit is very relaxed and fun to create positive feelings for your child about dental care. There will be no pressure to do anything they are not comfortable with. 

Benefits of Early Dental Care 

Beginning dental care at an early age has many benefits: 

• Improved oral health. When dental care begins at an early age it can improve a child’s oral health both immediately and for the future. By establishing a routine of regular dental appointments, your child is more likely to have better oral health for their lifetime. 
• Early detection of concerns. If there are any oral health concerns, such as early signs of gum disease, decay, or abnormalities, they can be detected early and treated more easily with better outcomes. 
• Reduced risk of dental anxiety. The earlier your child is introduced to the experience of going to the dentist, the less likely they are to develop dental anxiety. Starting early makes it seem normal and a regular part of their life. 
• Learn proper oral hygiene techniques. Children can learn to brush their teeth from an early age with help from a parent or guardian. As they grow they can become more independent to brush and floss effectively on their own. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Dental Care 

How early is too early for the first dental visit? 

We recommend waiting until at least 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth. Unless you have a major concern, there is no reason to begin dental care before that. 

My child is already past their first birthday. Is it too late? 

It is never too late to begin dental care. Your child can benefit from professional care as soon as you take them in for their first appointment. Don’t worry if they are older than one. Just begin as soon as possible. 

Schedule an Appointment Today

If your child has never been to the dentist or if it has been longer than 6 months since their last visit, make an appointment with Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry today. It is never too late to get started or to resume regular dental care for the benefit of your child’s oral health. 

At Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry we believe that all children deserve quality dental care. We begin seeing patients as early as their first birthday, providing a relaxing environment where dental care is made fun. Call 201-746-4626 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.