At what age should a child go to the dentist? Is dentistry even necessary for children who don’t have a complete set of teeth yet?
These questions are common among new parents, and the answers often surprise them. Kids’ dentistry is not just about their teeth but also their entire mouth, gums, and lips. As for exactly when your kids should go to the dentist, the answer is sooner than many parents think.
At What Age Should a Child Go to the Dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), you should take your children to their first dental check-up as soon as their first tooth erupts or before they turn 1. An early visit can set your kids up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and prevent decay and other oral health issues.
Of course, if your child is already 2 or 3 or older, it’s never a bad time to schedule your kid’s first dental visit. The earliest you can see a dentist, the better it is for your child’s health.
Benefits of Early Dental Visits – What Age Should a Child Go to the Dentist?
Experts recommend that children should go to the dentist at a young age for several reasons. Studies show that 36% of people have dental anxiety, but if you familiarize your children with a caring dentist early on, you can prevent them from developing this fear.
Early visits are not just for your toddler, either. They are a good opportunity for you to learn how to brush your toddler’s teeth properly and discover the best oral care practices.
Healthy baby teeth are vital to your children’s jaw structure as they hold space for their primary teeth. If one of them develops a cavity and has to be pulled, it will affect your child’s speech and chewing. While you can turn to restorative dental care services to fix any problems, prevention is always better.
How Often Should My Toddler Go to the Dentist?
Toddlers should visit the dentist for their first appointment by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth emerging. After that initial visit, it’s recommended that toddlers have dental check-ups every six months. Regular visits allow the dentist to monitor the child’s oral development, check for any signs of cavities, and provide guidance on proper dental care at home. Early and consistent dental check-ups help establish a positive relationship with the dentist, making future visits less daunting. Additionally, these appointments can address any parental concerns about dental hygiene, diet, and the importance of maintaining healthy teeth from a young age.
Now that you know when your kids should go to the dentist, you should know how often they need to revisit the dentist. The answer is every six months, and here are the reasons why:
- To remove any buildup of plaque and tartar
- Protect teeth with preventative dental services like fluoride and X-rays
- Keep your children’s smiles happy and healthy
- Save money and avoid big dental bills in the future
Schedule Your First Appointment at Children’s Dentistry
At What Age Should a Child Go to the Dentist? Children of all ages should go to the dentist, and it is our mission to keep kids smiling from infancy through adolescence. At Children’s Dentistry of Lolo, we treat the kids of Western Montana in a child-friendly office with video games and prizes. Most importantly, our staff is specially trained to help your kids feel at ease throughout the entire process. Call us now to schedule your child’s first appointment. We service the entire Frenchtown, Huson, Alberton, Lolo and Superior Montana area. We’ll see you here soon!