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At what age should my child first visit the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend that a visit to the dentist should be scheduled by the child's first birthday. At this young age problems can be detected, treated early, or avoided completely. More importantly, it can help establish a positive relationship between your child and the dentist.

What will happen during my child's first visit?

Dr. Ta will examine your child's teeth and gums, checking for decay and other problems or abnormalities in the mouth. Your child's bite, proper alignment of jaws, and spacing for permanent teeth will also be evaluated.

X-rays may be taken to evaluate for hidden decay, position and location of the developing permanent teeth. We will also discuss potential problems such as nursing decay, pacifier and thumb-sucking habits. Dr. Ta and his staff will advise you on a program of preventive health care including brushing, flossing, proper nutrition, and the use of fluoride.

What do I tell my child about seeing the dentist?

Tell them that the dentist is a friendly doctor who will help them take care of their teeth. Talk about the visit in a positive matter of fact way, as you would any important new experience. Don't let the child know you feel any anxiety about going to the dentist and don't use a dental visit as a punishment or threat. A visit to the dentist should be a delightful adventure for a young child.

Do I stay with my child during the visit?

For children under the 3 years old, we ask that parents accompany them for their visits. Your child will be sitting with you in your lap or you will sit in the chair with your child during the exam. As they get older and more comfortable, we ask that you allow them to be more independent. You can view your child through our one way mirror throughout the exam. However, if your child needs you, we also can provide you with a chair so that you can sit right next to them. Each child is different depending so we try our best to accommodate your family based on your needs.

Children's behavior in the dental office:

Pleasant visits to the dental office help a child establish trust and confidence that will last a lifetime. Pediatric dentists and their staff have been specially trained to help young, apprehensive children feel good about seeing the dentist and taking care of their teeth. Friendly, compassionate professionals and bright, cheerful office surroundings are all there to help your child feel comfortable and at ease with visiting the dentist.

We recommend scheduling younger children in the morning, when they are more rested and cooperative.

How often should regular visits be scheduled?

Ordinarily, periodic recall appointments, which include an examination, preventive dental education, cleaning and fluoride treatments will be recommended twice a year. The frequency of dental visits will partly depend on your child's eating habits; how clean his or her teeth are kept; and if he/she has a history of dental decay.

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Dental Home

Starting at Age 1

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) all recommend establishing a "Dental Home" for your child by one year of age.

The Dental Home is intended to provide a place other than the Emergency Room for parents.

Pleasant First Visit

When the child is seen at one year, the first visit can be pleasant and uneventful, introducing the child and parents to the dental office. Emphasis is on the developmental assessment of the child’s oral health. Caries (tooth decay) or developmental disturbances can be managed early. Fluoride varnish may be applied to counteract beginning decay on newly erupted teeth.

Five Steps for Baby's First Dental Visit