Taking your child to their routine dental appointment is an important part of their oral health development. 

Not only will it help them feel more at ease at the dentist’s and avoid developing anxiety regarding these visits, but it can also allow the dentist to closely monitor the child’s teeth and mouth. 

But when should you start taking your child to the dentist? Keep reading to find out! 

At What Age Should My Child Go to the Dentist? 

Experts recommend taking a child to see a pediatric dentist as soon as their first baby tooth starts to grow and no later than their first birthday.

Some babies can start teething as early as when they’re 4 months old, while others may need more time. Every baby is different, so don’t stress too much if you think the child’s first baby tooth is taking too long to erupt. 

If the child hasn’t grown any teeth by the time they’re 1 year old, you can take them to a pediatric dentist for a consultation. 

But parents can take their child to their first dentist appointment even earlier than their first tooth grows.

Does My Baby Really Need to See the Dentist? 

It’s not uncommon for parents to bring their infants for a short dental appointment. While it can seem strange to see a baby in a dentist’s office, this early visit can be quite beneficial. 

A pediatric dentist can take a look at the child’s gums and mouth and potentially spot any worrying signs that could affect their development. One example could be a tighter frenulum, which restricts the movement of the mouth and lips. This can prevent the baby from breastfeeding and may lead to speech issues later on. 

This early visit is also very beneficial for the parents. You can get tips on how to care for the baby’s mouth and clean it after every feeding to prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. 

What to Expect at My Child's First Dental Appointment 

This first appointment is the definition of minimally invasive. The pediatric dentist takes a look at the child’s gums, erupted teeth, and tongue to see if everything’s in order. 

They may also professionally clean the teeth to remove any plaque and tartar buildup and give you essential tips on how to protect your child’s teeth.

If done early, these first visits are virtually painless! 

Visit Our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist at Mission Bay 

Dr. Erin Shah is a board-certified pediatric dentist who can help parents ensure their children’s smiles grow happy and healthy. 

If it’s time for that first appointment or you are worried about your child’s tooth development, schedule a visit to Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry online.

Want to learn more about our services or your child’s oral health? Then feel free to call us at (415) 825-3323 today. We’d love to answer all your questions!

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