Children and the Dentist

When should your child actually start seeing the dentist? It’s a common question, and the answer might be earlier than you think.

The First Dental Visit: Sooner Than You Might Expect

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting — whichever comes first. For many kids, that first tooth pops up around 6 months of age, so their first dental appointment would happen sometime between 6 and 12 months old.

Why So Early?

At first glance, visiting the dentist before your baby has a mouthful of teeth might seem unnecessary. But these early visits serve several important purposes:

• Early detection of potential problems like baby bottle tooth decay.

• Parental education on how to clean baby teeth, teething, thumb-sucking, and nutrition.

• Establishing a dental home, where your child can receive consistent care and develop a positive relationship with their dentist.

What Happens at the First Visit?

Your child’s first dental appointment is usually quick and gentle — more of a check-in than a full cleaning. The dentist will:

• Examine your baby’s mouth, teeth, and gums.

• Check for signs of tooth decay or other issues.

• Show you how to clean your baby’s teeth properly.

• Talk to you about habits, feeding, and fluoride needs.

It’s also a great time to ask any questions you may have about your child’s oral development.

When Do Routine Cleanings Begin?

While the first few visits may just involve exams and parental guidance, regular cleanings typically begin around age 2 or 3, once more teeth are present and your child can tolerate a professional cleaning.

From this point on, the general recommendation is that children visit the dentist every six months for:

• Dental cleanings

• Fluoride treatments (as needed)

• X-rays (starting around age 4-6, depending on the child’s risk factors)

• Ongoing monitoring of development

Making Dental Visits Positive

The earlier you start, the easier it is for your child to get comfortable with dental visits. Here are some tips for a stress-free experience:

• Choose a pediatric dentist who specializes in working with children.

• Schedule appointments at times when your child is well-rested.

• Talk positively about the dentist beforehand — avoid using words like “hurt” or “pain.”

• Read children’s books about visiting the dentist to help normalize the experience.

The Bottom Line

The foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles starts early. Schedule your child’s first dental visit by age 1 and continue with regular exams and cleanings every six months starting in toddlerhood. Not only does this help prevent cavities and catch issues early — it also sets the tone for good oral hygiene habits that last a lifetime.

Do you want more information on booking your child’s first dental visit? Or have questions about pediatric dental care? Reach out to Midtown Dental and we can get you to the best Pediatric Dentists in Pensacola!