Your child should see a dentist within six months of their first tooth’s appearance or by their first birthday. The first appointment is the start to preventing dental disease.

The importance:

The first visit allows your child to become familiar with the dentist and dental office. Going to the dentist at an early age can detect problems and fix them before they get worse, and affect your child’s health. Discuss your child’s current oral care routine with the dentist. They can let you know what you are doing right and can give you information about proper techniques. Your child’s dentist may also talk about diet and fluoride.  

What to expect:

Arrive at the office ready with questions. Be sure to bring your child’s complete medical history. Depending on the age, the dentist will do an exam. An exam includes X-rays, looking in the mouth and recording information about the teeth. A child under two will likely just be given a toothbrush and you will be given information about brushing techniques.  

Next appointment:  

A child over the age of two should see a dentist every six months. These are recall appointments and allow the dentist to catch early problems. If a child has a high risk for cavities, it is recommended that X-rays are updated during every visit. The dentist will check your child’s mouth and updated X-rays. If there are any problems, your child will be scheduled for further treatment.

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