One of the questions we are asked by patients with their first child (and sometimes with multiple children) is, “when should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?”

That’s a very good question and it’s good that it’s being asked. The best time to ask the question is soon after the birth of the child, or before. But often, it’s asked when the child is 3, 4 or even 5 years old. That’s about 2, 3, or 4 years too late.

The first dental visit should be before the first birthday or when the first tooth appears in the mouth, whichever comes first. This is not just my recommendation, but also that of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Academy of Pediatric Dentists.

The importance of establishing a dental home for your child before the age of 1 is both prevention and educational. The key time to identify any potential issues is a soon as possible. The sooner something is identified, the sooner intervention can start. This limits the extent of damage that comes from allowing that issue to continue. This can be something as extensive as developmental issue such as a cleft palate or something like a hygiene or dietary counseling appointment. Most often, it is the latter. But in the limited instances where it is more significant, the intervention can begin sooner, the right team can be assembled, and a long-term plan can be developed. Our goal is to limit the impact any of these issues will have on the family’s lives. Identification and management is the key.

Some things to keep in mind prior to and during your child’s first visit –

1. Listen to your dentist – it may be your child’s first visit to the dentist, but it’s not their first time seeing a young child – they’ll have a good idea about how and when to schedule your child’s appointment

2. Keep your child’s schedule in mind when scheduling the appointment, but let the office help guide you in the final planning.

3. Bring a list of questions you have specific to your child’s dental health.

Question: When should I bring my child to the dentist for their first visit?
Answer: When their first tooth comes in or before their 1st birthday – whichever comes first.

That’s the question and that’s the answer from the best dentists and pediatricians in America.