When should parents take their children for their first dental checkup?

We support the recommendation by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry that your child should visit the dentist by his or her first birthday. Remember First Visit by First Birthday.  Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This visit will establish a dental home for your child. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child's smile now and in the future. This well baby visit, at the age of one, provides valuable information on how to take care of your baby's teeth, how to keep them healthy and cavity free, and how to assess normal dental development. Your baby will have his or her first oral exam during this visit. Parents will learn proper techniques for tooth brushing and receive nutritional information that will help maintain good oral health.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Some children need more frequent dental visits because of increased risk of tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene. Regular dental visits help your child stay cavity-free. Teeth cleanings remove debris that build up on the teeth, irritate the gums and cause decay. Fluoride treatments renew the fluoride content in the enamel, strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. Hygiene instructions improve your child's brushing and flossing, leading to cleaner teeth and healthier gums. Tooth decay isn't the only reason for a dental visit. Your pediatric dentist provides an ongoing assessment of changes in your child's oral health. For example, your child may need additional fluoride, dietary changes, or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.