Most parents are surprised when they hear the answer: by their first birthday.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that every child have their first dental visit within six months of the first tooth erupting, or by age one — whichever comes first. It might sound early, especially if your baby only has one or two teeth, but this timing is intentional.
Why So Early?
The first dental visit is less about cleaning and more about prevention, education, and relationship-building. By the time a child has their first tooth, the risk of early childhood tooth decay has already begun. In fact, early childhood caries (the clinical term for tooth decay in young children) is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the United States — and it is almost entirely preventable.
At a first visit, Dr. Kasey can:
- Identify early signs of decay before they become cavities requiring treatment
- Assess jaw and tooth development to make sure everything is progressing normally
- Screen for habits like thumb sucking or pacifier use that may affect development if they continue
- Provide personalized guidance on feeding, nutrition, and home hygiene appropriate to your child’s age
- Help your child begin to associate the dental office with something positive and safe
What Does a First Visit Actually Look Like?
For most infants and toddlers, the first visit is a knee-to-knee exam — your child stays on your lap the entire time, and Dr. Kasey gently examines the mouth from the other side of your knees. It is quick, non-threatening, and designed to feel nothing like the scary dental experiences many adults grew up with.
We typically do a gentle polish or wipe of the teeth that are present, apply a fluoride varnish (or nano-hydroxyapatite varnish for families who prefer a fluoride-free option), and spend the majority of the appointment talking with you about what to expect in the coming months and years.
What If My Child is Already Past Age One?
Start now. There is no wrong time to begin. Children who start dental care later can absolutely catch up, and establishing care early — even if not at age one — is far better than waiting until a problem arises. We see children who are new to dental care at every age and always meet them where they are.
The Real Goal: A Lifetime of Easy Dental Visits
Children who start dental care early, before they have any negative experiences, are far more likely to be comfortable dental patients throughout childhood and adulthood. The investment of a short, gentle visit at age one pays dividends for years.
If you have questions about scheduling your child’s first visit, we would love to hear from you. Call or text us at (503) 658-3384 or request an appointment online.