The ADA recommends that children start seeing the dentist within six months of getting their first tooth. See advice below from medical experts on the best timing for scheduling that visit and to see how experienced moms prepared for their baby's first time in the dentist's chair.
Prepare them in advance
"Once my kids get their first tooth, we start getting them prepped for their first dentist visit. Before we visit the dentist, we read books about it, do toothbrush-themed play activities, let them explore toothbrushes, and we even go shopping for fluoride-free toothpaste. Before their first birthday, we typically go for our first visit to meet the dentist, explore the office, practice sitting in the chairs, and teach our kids that the dentist's office is a positive and helpful place. After they turn 3, we switch to toothpaste with fluoride. Orajel PAW Patrol Anticavity Fluoride Toothpaste is our favorite!"
— Kristina Buskirk, founder of Toddler Approved and mom of four
Think of it as a well-baby check for their teeth
"This is a question that comes up a lot. I honestly recommend to my patients and families to see the dentist shortly after that first tooth eruption. If they don't, then I would definitely recommend seeing a dentist by 1 year of age. Just as it is important to establish good practices early, I believe in having 'well-baby' teeth checks as well as the standard 'well-child' checks with your primary care doctor."
— Jessica (J.J.) Smith, CPNP-AC, CPN, board-certified pediatric nurse practitioner currently practicing in acute care medicine at Dayton Children's Hospital in Dayton, Ohio
Ask your doctor
"Children start seeing the dentist at about 2 years of age or when the full set of 20 'baby' teeth have erupted. There are times when seeing the dentist earlier than age 2 is necessary, but your child’s care provider will assist you in making this decision."
— Wendy C., mom of three
Going early helps with fear later
"We first went at 1 year old! It's great to begin early. They do a teeth check and count — not an official cleaning — and it helps temper the potential dentist-visit fear."
— Gretchen Bossio, blogger and mom of four
Consider a pediatric dentist
"Definitely by age 3. If you can go to a dentist that specializes in children, that's ideal. They are so good at making kids feel safe and not scared, plus they play movies overhead and give away toys!"
— Amy Wruble, mom of two
Around age 3, kids can sit more still
"Our pediatrician suggests that around age 3, children are ready to sit for a limited dental exam, but recommends going earlier if there are any issues detected. And of course, oral hygiene should start when they're newborns and be a regular part of their daily routines long before they see the dentist."
— Naomi Naughton, Mom.com team and mom of four
*Disclaimer: The advice on Mom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
