WHEN SHOULD YOUR CHILD START GOING TO THE DENTIST?
- When Should Your Child See a Dentist?
- Child's First Dental Visit
- CAN MY CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT BE AT AGE 2?
A pediatric dentist, or children’s dentist can help your child establish good oral care habits, better prevent any issues, and support the growth and development of your child’s teeth. That’s why it’s important to understand exactly when the first dental visit should take place.
When Should Your Child See a Dentist?
The first primary, or baby, teeth erupt through the gums as early as four months. Knowing that, when is the best time to get the dentist involved? The answer is as soon as the first tooth appears. At this time, begin brushing your child's teeth daily and schedule a dental appointment. In most cases, children should visit the dentist by their first birthday.
Looking for the best children's dentist near you? Ask friends and family and select a dentist in your area that comes recommended. The first relationship your child has with a dentist can leave a lasting impression. A good children’s dentist is someone who can handle and ease dental anxiety, keep kids engaged, provide different sedation options, and has a kid-friendly practice.
Child's First Dental Visit
You can make your child's first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive.
A few things to try right before your scheduled first dental visit include:
- Let your child know in advance that someone will look at their teeth and clean them.
- Show them pictures of a dentist.
- Have fun role-playing as a dentist and patient.
- Pretend to check the teeth of stuffed animals or dolls.
Most dentists prefer that a parent be present for the examination of any child under the age of three. Some ask the parent to sit in the dental chair and hold the young patient on their lap during the first few examinations. It can also be helpful to take your younger children along for an older sibling’s dental visit so that they can get accustomed to the office and the people.
As children get older, they’re usually happy to be “grown up” and are willing to sit in the chair alone while they send their parents back to the waiting room. At the first visit, your dental professional will examine your child’s mouth for early signs of decay, cavities, and other problems. He or she will also tell you many of the things you’ll need to know about helping your child grow up cavity-free. After the first visit, be sure your child sees the dentist regularly.
Can My Child’s First Dental Visit Be at Age 2?
It is recommended that your child see a dental professional when their first baby tooth comes out. This often happens by the age of 1, but it is possible for some children to be late bloomers when it comes to teething. Late teething can occur up to 15 months of age.
If the first dental visit is at age 2, here’s what you can expect:
- You will most likely have to hold your child while in the dental chair.
- Your child’s erupting teeth will be examined.
- Your dental professional will provide any advice needed for a good oral care routine.
- Ask about your child’s current oral care habits and concerns.
At the appointment, your children’s dentist can show you how to brush and take care of baby teeth, what to avoid as their mouths develop, and which oral care products to introduce at different stages.
Your children’s dentist may recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-free training toothpaste. The Oral-B and Crest Baby Training Toothpaste and Toothbrush Kit includes a manual toothbrush with extra-soft bristles for a gentle clean and a mild strawberry flavored non-fluoride toothpaste that's free of artificial flavors, sodium lauryl sulfate, sweeteners, and dyes.
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