At What Age Should My Kid First See A Dentist?

Posted on 2/2/2026 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

A young child sits calmly in the dental chair on his own, opening his mouth for his pediatric dentist to perform a routine dental examination using common dental tools.

Figuring out when to take your child to the dentist for the first time can feel like another milestone to navigate. As a pediatric dentist, I often hear this question from parents. The answer is simpler than you might think and revolves around setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles!

The "When" and the "Why"

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child's first dental visit should occur by their first birthday, or within six months after the first tooth erupts – whichever comes first. This might seem early, but there are several important reasons for this recommendation.

Early Detection is Key

Just like adults, children can develop dental problems. Early childhood caries, also known as tooth decay, can develop rapidly, even in babies. The first visit allows us to check for any signs of early decay or other potential issues with the teeth, gums, and jaw. Catching problems early means they can often be addressed with simpler, less invasive methods.

Establishing a Dental Home

Creating a "dental home" early on is another key benefit. A dental home means that your child has a regular dentist who knows their history and can provide consistent, comprehensive care. This helps build trust and familiarity, making future dental visits less stressful for both you and your child. Starting early allows your child to become comfortable with the dental environment and the people who work there. We want them to see the dentist as a friendly helper, not someone to be feared.

Education and Prevention

The first dental visit isn't just about checking for problems. It's also a valuable opportunity for parents to receive education and guidance on proper oral hygiene practices for their child. We can demonstrate the best ways to clean your baby's teeth or gums, discuss fluoride use, and offer advice on diet and feeding habits that promote healthy teeth. We can discuss habits like thumb-sucking or pacifier use and their potential impact on your child’s developing mouth. We can also discuss preventative measures like fluoride varnish applications.

What to Expect at the First Visit

The first dental visit is usually short and sweet. The goal is to make it a positive experience for your child. It usually involves a gentle examination of your child's mouth, a discussion about oral hygiene and feeding practices, and possibly a cleaning, if appropriate. We may also discuss what to expect as your child's teeth develop.

Making it a Positive Experience

To help your child have a positive first dental visit, try these tips:

•	Talk about the dentist in a positive way.
•	Read books or watch videos about going to the dentist.
•	Schedule the appointment for a time when your child is well-rested and fed.
•	Bring a comfort item, like a favorite toy or blanket.

The Takeaway

Bringing your child to the dentist early in life is an investment in their future oral health. It allows for early detection of problems, establishes a dental home, provides valuable education for parents, and helps create a positive association with dental care. Starting early sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy and happy smiles.

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A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE

NC’s Premier network of pediatric dental practices is committed to delivering a full suite of trusted, comfortable, and informative oral care services. With kid-centric spaces and experiences, we teach kids how to care for their smiles.

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