When Does a Child First See the Dentist?

Both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry www.aapd.org and the American Academy of Pediatrics www.aap.org advocate for "first tooth or first birthday". It seems early but it reallly establishes good oral care and your child use to someone's fingers in their mouth. They won't do much the first visit but it's helpful. Check out the AAPD's web site www.aapd.org for a pediatric dentist in your area - they also have a good parent FAQ section.

Good luck!

Like the other poster said, they say 2 years old. We just made my sons first appointment for the month after he turns 3 and that still seems early to me.

2 years old. It isn't too early. My dentist recommends every 6 months after the age of 2, just like an adult. Good dental care is important, even with baby teeth. The first appointment is usually a check up with a simple cleaning if the child will allow it. Also you have to think of a dental accident. What if your child hurt or cracked a tooth? You will need dental coverage. So even if you decide to not take her for a checkup I would make sure she is insured just in case.

I took my daughter when she turned 2 as that is the recommended age. I made and continue to make brushing teeth fun and we do it every eveing. She has two toothbrushes as I have taught her to make a decision on what she likes and use toddler toothpaste (no flouride). You want to be sure that you have a routine with brushing her teeth so when you go to the dentist she will not be afraid when the hygenist and dentist open her mouth. Our dentist as well as her staff are SUPER! The name of the practice is ALL ABOUT KIDS DENTISTRY 1845 E. Rand Road in Arlington Hts. Good luck!

I took my son for the first time when he was 4. They say you should start as early as 2, but I thought that was too early....