Timing is everything - When should kids go to the dentist?
Between sleepless nights, first smiles, and those tiny new teeth coming in, dental visits are usually not top of mind for new parents. But sooner than you might expect, an important question comes up: when do kids start going to the dentist? It turns out the answer is earlier than many families realize.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see a dentist by age one, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. That early visit is not just about checking teeth. It is about setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits and protecting your child's developing smile.
Even though baby teeth (primary teeth) are temporary, they play an essential role and need to be cared for. Healthy primary teeth allow children to chew comfortably and establish clear speech patterns, while guiding the permanent teeth into place, and contributing to healthy facial growth.
Starting dental care at age 1 helps prevent cavities and gives parents the guidance they need during a stage of rapid change. If your child already has teeth, now is the perfect time to schedule that first visit.
Why early dental visits matter
Tooth decay is surprisingly common in young children. That's why experts recommend establishing dental care by age 1 instead of waiting until preschool or kindergarten.
I know what you're thinking. Does a child that young really need to see the dentist? In a nutshell, yes. But don't start imagining deep cleanings and the buzz of the drill. These early visits are calm, gentle, quick, and focused on prevention. They give your child's dentist the opportunity to make sure everything is developing properly and to answer any questions you may have about caring for your child's teeth.
Just as importantly, starting early helps dental care feel normal, and dare we say 'fun'. When visits begin at age 1, the dentist and other staff at the office become a familiar, friendly part of your child’s routine, not something to fear. Sounds that are strange for some children fade into the background with familiarity as your child says hello to everyone, plays with the toys in the waiting room, and looks forward to learning about the tools their dentist uses.
But that comfort and familiarity doesn't start and end in the dental chair. It is reinforced every day at home through small, consistent habits that show your child that caring for their teeth is simply part of growing up. Opening wide to brush their teeth and enjoying watching as new teeth erupt and their smile grows can encourage an enthusiasm for oral hygiene that lasts a lifetime.
What happens at baby/toddler visits?
If you're bringing a baby or toddler in for their first appointment, expect it to be gentle and low pressure. At Tend, we strive to make every visit to our clinic a relaxed, stress-free experience, especially for our youngest patients.
Your child will likely sit on your lap during the exam, where they feel safe and comfortable. The dentist will carefully look at their teeth, gums, and bite, checking that everything is developing as expected. If there are a few teeth, your dentist may also perform a light cleaning to remove plaque. In some cases, a small amount of fluoride varnish is applied to strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.
Each visit also includes plenty of time for you to ask questions related to your child's oral health. We take pride in helping parents navigate issues that arise around childhood oral health, such as brushing, teething, pacifiers, thumb sucking, and feeding habits.
If you are planning a visit to a dentist for a 1 year old or even a visit to a dentist for an 18 month old, know that these appointments are designed around reassurance and prevention, not extensive treatment.
What about ages 2 and 3?
Once your child has been to the dentist a couple of times to establish care, visits typically continue every six months. That rhythm helps dental care feel predictable and familiar, both for you and for your little one.
At age 2
By age 2, most children have several teeth and are starting to assert their independence. They may want to hold the toothbrush and try brushing on their own. That is a wonderful sign of growth.
Dental visits at this stage focus on gently reinforcing brushing habits, monitoring tooth spacing, and checking for any early signs of cavities. A dentist for a 2 year old understands that cooperation can vary from day to day. Appointments are kept supportive, flexible, and encouraging.
At home, this age is often when routines matter most. Brushing twice a day with a small smear of fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen developing enamel. Even if brushing sometimes feels wiggly or imperfect, consistency makes a real difference. You do not have to do it perfectly. You just have to keep showing up.
At age 3
By age 3, children typically have all 20 primary teeth, and many are more comfortable sitting independently for parts of their visit. Appointments may include a more thorough but still gentle cleaning, fluoride treatment, and a closer look at how the bite and jaw are developing. If recommended and developmentally appropriate, simple dental X-rays may also be introduced.
These early years are not about flawless brushing or perfectly behaved appointments. They are about building comfort and confidence. With regular visits and steady routines at home, you are giving your child something lasting: a healthy foundation and a positive relationship with dental care that can carry into adulthood.
And that is something to feel good about.
Signs your child should see a dentist sooner
While age 1 is the standard recommendation for a first visit to the dentist, there are times when it makes sense to come in sooner. If something does not look or feel quite right, trust your instincts. You know your child best. It is a good idea to schedule an appointment if you notice:
- White, brown, or dark spots on teeth
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Injury to the mouth or teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Delayed tooth eruption
Most of the time, these concerns are easily addressed, especially when caught early. And even if everything turns out to be perfectly normal, peace of mind is always worth the effort of a visit.
How to prepare for your child’s first appointment
Preparation for your child's first dental visit can be simple, and it does not have to be perfect.
Try scheduling the appointment for a time when your child is usually well-rested and fed. A calm, unhurried morning often works well. In the days leading up to the visit, talk about the dentist in a positive, matter-of-fact way.
Reading a children’s book about going to the dentist or practicing opening wide at home can make the experience feel more familiar. Even something as small as pretending to count teeth during brushing time can help.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Toddlers are unpredictable. Whether your child giggles through the visit or needs a few extra cuddles, it is all okay. We expect wiggles and big feelings and are here to support both of you. Your calm presence and reassurance mean more than anything. And simply bringing your child in is already a wonderful step toward protecting their smile.
When should kids start going to the dentist?
Sooner than you may think. At Tend, we pride ourselves on caring for growing smiles. Whether you need to book a first dental visit at age 1 or need a dentist for 18 month old or 2 year old, our team creates a welcoming experience that helps kids feel safe and confident from day one.
Schedule your child’s first visit today and start building healthy habits early.