It’s one of the most common questions we hear from patients with little ones: When should I bring my child to the dentist? Is age 2 too late? And how will I know if they’re ready to sit in the chair? The answer is a little nuanced, so we’ll explain the when, why, and how of those first dental visits. 

The Right Age for Your Child’s First Dental Appointment

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), a child’s first dental visit should happen by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in—whichever comes first.

We like to go a little further and suggest you make an appointment when your child gets their first tooth. This might seem early, especially if your child has only one or two teeth, but there are several important reasons for introducing dental care at this time.

Why Early Visits Matter for Kids

The first visit isn’t just about counting teeth (though we love celebrating those milestones!). It’s about laying the foundation for a healthy, happy relationship with oral care.

Here are a few key benefits of an early dental visit:

• Establishing trust and comfort: Early visits help your child get used to the sights, sounds, and friendly faces at the dental office. Many times, our goal is simply to get them comfortable in the chair at that first appointment.
• Preventing problems before they start: We can check for early signs of tooth decay, monitor growth and development, and help guide healthy habits. 
• Education for parents: We’ll talk with you about brushing, flossing, nutrition, teething, pacifiers, and what to expect in the months and years ahead.

What To Expect: Your Child’s First Dental Visit

The first dental visit is typically short, gentle, and informative. It’s our chance to meet your little one, answer your questions, and begin building trust. Here’s what usually happens:

• A quick but thorough exam of your child’s mouth, gums, and developing teeth
• A discussion about your child’s oral development and any habits (like thumb sucking or bottle use)
• Guidance on how to brush tiny teeth and keep gums clean
• Tips for managing teething, fluoride, and nutrition

We make it fun, calm, and full of smiles—with lots of encouragement and reassurance along the way.

Making the First Dental Visit a Positive Experience

Here are a few things you can do to help make your child’s first dental visit a success:

• Talk about it positively: Use upbeat, simple language to explain where you’re going and why. Books or videos about the dentist can help, too.
• Pick a time when your child is well-rested and fed: Mid-morning tends to work well for young children.
• Bring comfort items: A favorite toy or blanket can offer reassurance.
• Keep expectations simple: We want your child to leave with a smile and a sense that the dentist is a safe, friendly place. We might not do everything mentioned above during a first visit, and that’s okay.

Dental Habits That Grow With Your Child

From that very first visit, we’re here to support your family through every stage of dental development. Regular checkups (typically every six months) help us catch issues early, encourage good habits, and make oral health a natural part of your child’s routine.

Every child is different, and we tailor our care to meet their unique needs with warmth, patience, and a gentle touch.

If your child is approaching their first birthday or has just sprouted a new tooth, we’d love to welcome you. Feel free to reach out with questions or to schedule that important first visit. Together, we can help your child smile with confidence for years to come.

The information on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.