As a parent, you want to give your child the best start in life. Fostering healthy oral health habits and a healthy smile is a great way to do just that.
A question we get often on this subject is: When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time? The answer might surprise you.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth coming in—whichever comes first. These visits help make sure your child’s teeth are developing correctly and that you’re on the right track with brushing, feeding, and habits that can affect tooth alignment like thumb-sucking.
First Visit: Around Age 1
The first dental visit is usually short and simple. Your dentist will check your baby’s mouth, talk with you about caring for baby teeth, and answer any questions you have. It’s also a great way to get your child get comfortable with the dental office. This will help make visits feel normal and probably even a little fun later on.
Toddler Checkups: Every 6 Months
Just like adults, kids should see the dentist every six months. These early checkups help spot problems like cavities or bite issues early, which makes treatment easier and less stressful. Your dentist might also apply fluoride or suggest sealants to protect your child’s teeth from decay.
Around Age 6: Losing Baby Teeth
Most kids start to lose their baby teeth around age 6. This is when some new issues related to tooth and jaw development can pop up—like crooked teeth or crowding. Regular checkups during this stage help the dentist track how the adult teeth are coming in and decide if your child might need orthodontic care in the future.
Age 7 and Up: Smile Growth
By age 7, many kids have a mix of baby and adult teeth. This is a key stage for watching how their jaw and bite are developing. Your dentist may recommend a visit to an orthodontist if needed, but don’t worry—early checks don’t always mean braces right away.
Healthy Habits When They're Young
The more comfortable you child gets with going to the dentist and with regular dental care, the better their dental habits will be later in life. Making dental visits a routine part of their health care teaches kids that their smile is important and plays a big part in avoiding bigger problems down the road.
Thanks for Reading!
Make your dentist a part of your kid's life at an early age, and if you ever have any questions about ways to build better habits or their development, don't hesitate to ask!
If you enjoy reading our blog, please like our Facebook page to see the newest posts.