When Do Kids Start Going to the Dentist?

Posted on February 16th, 2023 | Dr. Kerry Lowery

The Importance of Early Childhood Dental Care

Early dental care is essential to the healthy development of children’s teeth and maintaining their dental hygiene.

For at-home care, infants’ gums should be wiped gently with a wet cloth prior to tooth eruption, and their baby teeth should be cleaned with a soft, early childhood toothbrush. As children become toddlers, they should brush their teeth daily with help from their parents or guardians until they are able to properly do so on their own.

It’s also important to bring your child to the dentist for regular appointments once they reach the appropriate age.

When Should Kids Start Going to the Dentist?

If you are a new parent, you may be wondering what age should kids go to the dentist for their first appointment?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), a child’s first dental appointment should occur at the age of one, or when their first tooth emerges, whichever comes first. This may seem too early to some parents, however, there are significant advantages to early childhood dental visits.

Planning for the Future

It’s never fun to think about putting your child through something new that might make them feel nervous or frightened, and going to the dentist can be scary for many young kids. However, the earlier your child experiences what a dental office is like and gets to know the staff, the more familiar and comfortable they will become with dental appointments.

Additionally, early dentist appointments help promote a positive association with oral healthcare. They also help prevent issues like cavities, improper bite development, and problems related to tooth eruption.

How Often Should Kids Go to the Dentist?

If your child has already had their first dental appointment, you might still be wondering when it’s appropriate to take the kids to the dentist for routine dental checkups.

It’s important to make sure your child visits the dentist at least twice a year so their dental health and development can be monitored and they continue to learn about caring for their teeth and gums.

Visit Beyond Smiles of Park Ridge for Pediatric Dental Care

If you’re searching for a trusted family dentist in or near Park Ridge, IL, contact us at Beyond Smiles today. We offer compassionate, patient-focused dentistry for children in Park Ridge, which means we’ll take a gentle approach to your child’s first dental appointment and their ongoing care.

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