At what age should you take a child to the dentist?

Question

I've got a two year old and was curious as to when is the apporiate age to take him in to visit the dentist? I wanted to take him in when the first tooth came out but was told not to!!

Answer 1

The ADA recommends taking your child to a pediatric dentist when your child's first teeth start coming out.

Several reasons why it's a good idea: It helps to get your child used to visiting the dentist (makes it less fearful for them in the future), it lets the dentist check to make sure everything is progressing normally with your child, and you get to ask questions about what to do and what not to do for your child's dental health.

Answer 2

Since he doesn't have other problems and all the baby teeth are in, now is a good time to go to the dentist. You should take the child to a "pedodondist" (kids dentist) if possible. Because they're used to working with kids they have a little chair, and a bright and cheerful office, and a nice manner with little kids. For one thing, it's good to get your child used to going to the dentist so he doesn't feel scared of the noises and the doctor. Also, in our office we do see even tiny kids with cavities if they have been going to sleep with a bottle of milk every night. On the first visit the dentist probably won't take x-rays or anything. He'll just do a visual inspection for the teeth and get a chart started. Then he or the assistant might "brush" the teeth with a little polisher and some yummy tooth polish. He might or might not do a little flouride treatment depending on the water in your area. Last of all, the dentist or the assistant will give you some tips for keeping your child's teeth healthy. My own kids are now all teenagers and have never had a cavity, so it's possible to grow up without cavities these days! I'm so glad you asked about taking your child to the dentist! You get points for good parenting!

Answer 3

I have cleaned the teeth of a 3 year old before that sat in the chair and was wonderful. It doesn't happen often but some kiddos are just ready. I usually encourage parents to bring kids for a first visit around age 5 unless you see a dark spot on a tooth that concerns you earlier. I ask them to bring the child with them on one of their visits to get a feel for the office and take a ride in the chair (happy visit).
It's important that you talk about their going to the dentist in a positive way. Even if you hate it and are scared to death, there is no reason for them to be. Also...don't threaten to take them "to the dentist and have their teeth pulled" if they don't brush. Please help make it a good visit for all of us. Thanks....a hygienist.

Answer 4

It all depends on the dentist, and what he/she decides is appropriate. Definatley let your child be aware of dental hygine and the dental office. I will be very honest... some dentists aren't child friendly... only meaning they don't want to deal with a toddler when they usually see adults... you could see a pediodontist... a dentist especially for children if you want your child to be seen without a hassle. What I would first recommend is to take your small child with you when you get your dental work done (the best idea is to only have your child there if its a cleaning, if you are getting other work done you may need a needle and children are afraid of needles... I definatly would try not to let my child associate the dentist with needles untill they are old enough for other dental work, and even then I would try to avoid telling them about the shot). Be brave (for some patients this is hard) and show how easy going to the dentist can be. If you can, let them sit on your lap and watch... even ask your child to smile and show his/her teeth or see if the dentist can briefly look in his/her mouth. That way your child is used to the atmosphere and knows he/she is going to have to open their mouth and let some "stranger" look in. The more the child knows about the dentist the less strange it will be. Again some dentist don't like kids. Some even ask that you don't bring your child in with your appointment in case they get restless and in the way. Always call ahead and confirm with your dentist if it won't be a problem... sometimes they may want to schedule an extra 10 or 15 minutes so they won't get behind and other patients won't wait and they can allow that extra time to focus on your child. If you show consideration for your dentist and his/her schedule... they are more likely to show some for you.

Toddlers very rarely acutally need cleanings or dental work, but it is a good idea to get them aclimated to the dental world.

Answer 5

I have a 9yr old, 7 year old, 3 yr old and 11month.

They all have been to the dentist at a young age. You should take him to a pediatric dentist.
My 7 yr old that just had his teeth cleaned and full mouth x rayed is missing five adult teeth and which they didn't know about till now.

My 9 yr old need two root canals on baby molars and he gets his teeth cleaned and everything he is supposed to do at home.

Take your son as soon as you can and keep up with appointments and home hygiene

Answer 6

You should take them in at around 3-4 years old for their first check up and cleaning. I work at a dentist and that is what we recommend.

Answer 7

Now is a perfect time to take your child to the dentist because they are suppose to go 6 months after cutting teeth or a little after their 1st birthday.

Answer 8

The dentist my niece goes to wouldn't do anything until she turned 4 but you can take him in and get him used to going. All they will do is look at the teeth he has in and probably give him a sticker or something.

Answer 9

you should take your kids to the dentist as soon as the first tooth comes out (usually by 6 months). dentist will be able to give the baby fluoride treatment to protect primary teeth. it's very safe, and primary (baby) teeth are just as important as permanent teeth and they are important for the development of the permanent teeth also.

Answer 10

I would take him now. The sooner the better, so that he can get used to seeing the dentist, same with the doctor and the hair salon. These people tend to frighten little kids, so it's good to make them a routine in your life.