A child’s first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable. Children are not born with a natural fear of the dentist, but they may fear the unknown. Our office uses pleasant, simple, non-frightening words to describe each treatment. We work to help you and your child feel at ease from the moment you arrive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the more confident you will feel.
Recommendations From the Experts
Both the American Association of Pediatric Dentists and American Dental Association recommend that children visit the dentist by their first birthday. Your child’s newly erupted teeth begin to appear around six to 12 months of age. Early visits help us protect those new teeth and establish healthy habits from the start.
When New Teeth Arrive
Your child’s first primary (baby) teeth usually erupt between six and 12 months of age. They continue erupting until about age three. During this time, your child’s gums may feel tender. To ease discomfort, gently rub the gums with a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth. You can also offer a teething ring. After teething ends, your child will have 20 primary teeth.
Children lose primary teeth at different times throughout childhood. Permanent teeth begin erupting around age six and continue until about age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth, or 32 including wisdom teeth.
Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
As teeth erupt, examine them every two weeks. Look for lines or discoloration that may signal decay. Sugary foods and drinks can quickly damage new teeth. Help your child brush after meals and snacks. We recommend brushing four times a day: after breakfast, after lunch, after dinner, and at bedtime.
Make brushing fun! Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. We recommend fluoridated toothpaste for all children beginning at tooth eruption. Use a smear the size of a grain of rice until age three. After age three, use a pea-sized amount. Dispense the toothpaste yourself and supervise brushing. Help your child brush thoroughly.
Flossing is also important. We will help you decide when to begin flossing. If you notice signs of decay, contact your dentist right away.
You can find more information on our pediatric dentistry FAQ page.
Preventing Tooth Decay with Regular Checkups
Sugars left in the mouth turn into acid. That acid can break down tooth enamel and cause cavities. Many children and teens do not maintain consistent oral hygiene habits. Daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular dental visits greatly reduce the risk of decay.
Schedule dental visits every six months for cleanings and checkups. We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year to strengthen enamel. Sealants also protect teeth by sealing deep grooves where cavities often form. Sealants can last for several years. We will check them at each regular visit.
