Dental visits are usually scheduled twice a year to support oral health. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) recommend that children have their first dental visit by age one or within six months of their first tooth, then continue with twice-yearly visits for regular checkups, cleanings, and to monitor development, with some children needing more frequent visits for issues like high cavity risk or orthodontics.

Dentists do more than just give a polish and a quick check during each visit. Brushing and flossing can remove much of the bacterial film and plaque on teeth, but not all of it. Dental visits help remove it more thoroughly. They also allow dentists to spot signs of dental and oral health problems, according to Penn Dental Medicine. Dentists look for signs of oral cancer and other cancers. Additionally, they offer guidance on overall oral care.

The importance of going to the dentist can’t be overstated. Regular dental checkups are crucial for both children and adults. Parents may wonder when they should begin focusing on their kids’ oral hygiene. This timeline can help guide that process.

Before teeth erupt

Children are not born with teeth, but it remains important to keep their mouths clean. From birth until the first tooth appears, experts recommend gently wiping your baby’s gums, tongue, and inner cheeks with a damp washcloth or gauze after feeding. This removes bacteria and helps prevent plaque buildup. It also helps babies become accustomed to oral care.

The first tooth appears

The Better Health Channel states that the first tooth usually erupts around six months of age. When this happens, you should brush the tooth with a soft children’s toothbrush and water twice a day. Talk to a pediatrician before using fluoride toothpaste at this stage, as there are conflicting guidelines. As more teeth come in, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and help toddlers and preschoolers learn to brush their own teeth. The ADA advises that parents supervise the brushing process until children are about seven or eight years old, when they will have the skill and dexterity to do it independently.

Visiting the dentist

Stanford Children’s Health recommends that parents take their child to the dentist for their first visit by 12 months of age or within six months after the first tooth emerges. During this visit, the dentist will discuss topics such as baby bottle tooth decay, infant feeding habits, teething, pacifier use, and finger-sucking habits. Children are typically advised to see a dentist every six months, just like adults.

It is essential for parents to emphasize good oral health habits so kids get accustomed to visiting the dentist early. This can set children on a path to lifelong oral health.