At what age does a child has his/her first dentist appt.?

Question

my son is three and has yellow stains on his teeth . is he to young to have them cleaned . or is there something i can do at home to get them white again.. he brushes every morning.

Answer 1

Two or three

Answer 2

First of all, I'm glad that he brushes every morning, but no three year old can really do an adequate job of brushing. You MUST do this at least once a day yourself, so try bedtime.

I like it when Mom or Dad start to bring the child into the office at age about 2 years old. They do NOT get in the chair at that age unless they really want to. Most children will have a natural curiosity and ask for a turn in the chair by the time they are 3-3½ years old and this is the right time to get started on dental visits.

I tend to push it a little by age 4 and really insist by age 5. You can't let them get this old without at least getting a good examination.

My rule of thumb is that I just don't want to be the FIRST stranger that the child has encountered to provide them with any kind of personal services, but I also don't want them to be in total control about when they think it is time to start cooperating.

Of course, if you see or suspect any dental problems, you must go as soon as you notice something that needs a professional evaluation.

Answer 3

Generally, once they have all their teeth, you can take them to the dentist. 2 or 3 is most common for the first appointment. You can take them in before then too if you have concerns. If he is good with brushing his teeth, then he should have no problem. The dentist will brush his teeth with some paste on a little rubber cup that "tickles" the teeth and he will get to "ride" up and down in the big chair. He can show how good he can be to open his mouth wide and show his teeth. If he won't let the dentist brush, it's not a huge deal; but if he'll open, then at least the dentist can take a look. =)

Answer 4

Most dentists and insurance will not pay until a child is 3. However, you should have been brushing his teeth for a while now. When my kids first started going to the dentist, I took them with me, and let them watch what was going on so they weren't scared.

And as for yellowing, make sure you watch things like tea and soda intake because they will cause yellowing of the teeth really badly.

Answer 5

Take him to a kids dentist. Not all dentists will treat children of that age group. He must get accustomed to going to the dentist first. It could be a nightmare if he does not like it. You must get him to brush, do it with him more than once a day. Talk to him about going to the dentist first. Make it something fun for him. He learns from example and you be that example.

Answer 6

Three is the recommended age. Take your child before their first appointment to watch you get your teeth cleaned so he/she becomes familiar with the sights and sounds. Also watching you reassures them that it isn't painful or scary. If they are scared and cry and refuse any treatment don't push it--you don't want them to have a bad experience--just try again in 6 months.

Answer 7

He is definatly not too young to have his teeth cleaned. We recommend that you come in at least by 2, but the ADA is now saying 1. at 3 he has all his primary teeth, it would be good to at least get an exam.

Answer 8

We took ours for the first time at fifteen months. The pediatric dentist told us that was important; had to ensure that his teeth were coming in properly.

Answer 9

I was told by our dentist that they are of age when they start getting teeth. Here is a web site that may help you. I hope and pray this helps.

http://familydoctor.org/227.xml

Answer 10

I took my daughter when she was three. They cleaned and checked to make sure her teeth were growing in properly. You should make an appointment soon.