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A Child's First Dental Visit Fact Sheet

When should your child first see a dentist? You can take your child at a younger age, but experts recommend taking him or her within 6 months of the first tooth coming in (erupting), or by about 12 months at the latest.

At this time, the dentist can give you information on:

Baby bottle tooth decay

Infant feeding practices

Mouth cleaning

Pacifier habits

Finger-sucking habits

Prepare your child

If possible, schedule morning appointments so young children are alert and fresh.

Prepare a preschooler or older child for the visit by giving him or her a general idea of what to expect. Explain why it is important to go to the dentist. Build excitement and understanding.

Prepare yourself

Discuss your questions and concerns with the dentist. Remember that your feeling toward dental visits can be quite different from your child's. Be honest with your view of the dentist. If you have dental anxieties, be careful not to relate those fears or dislikes to your child. Parents need to give moral support by staying calm while in the dental exam room. Children can pick up parents' anxieties and become anxious themselves.

Prepare the dentist

At the first visit, give the dentist your child's complete health history. For a restoration visit, such as getting a cavity filled, tell the dentist if your child tends to be stubborn, defiant, anxious, or fearful in other situations.

Watch how your child reacts. Many parents are able to guess how their child will respond and should tell the dentist. Certain behaviors may be linked to your child's age:

10 to 24 months. Some securely attached children may get upset when taken from their parents for an exam.

2 to 3 years. A securely attached child may be able to cope with a brief separation from parents. In a 2-year-old, "no" may be a common response.

3 years. Three-year-olds may not be OK being apart from a parent when having a dental procedure such as getting a cavity filled. This is because most 3-year-olds are not socially mature enough to separate from parents.

4 years. Most children should be able to sit in another room from parents for exams and treatment procedures.

The first visit

Your child's first dental visit is to help your child feel comfortable with the dentist. The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. If needed, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. The dentist may show you and your child proper home cleaning such as flossing, and advise you on the need for fluoride. Baby teeth fall out, so X-rays aren’t often done. But your child's dentist may recommend X-rays to diagnose decay, depending on your child's age. X-rays are also used to see if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be affecting an adult tooth. In general, it is best that young children not have dental X-rays unless absolutely needed.

The second visit

Just like adults, children should see the dentist every 6 months. Some dentists may schedule visits more often, such as every 3 months. This can build comfort and confidence in the child. More frequent visits can also help keep an eye on a development problem.

Protect your children's teeth at home

 Here are some tips to protect your children's teeth:

Before teeth come in, clean gums with a clean, damp cloth.

Start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a very small amount of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) when your child's first tooth appears. Use a pea-sized dab of fluoridated toothpaste after 3 years of age. This is when the child is old enough to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.

Prevent baby bottle tooth decay. Don't give children a bottle of milk, juice, or sweetened liquid at bedtime or when put down to nap.

Limit the time your child has a bottle. Your child should empty a bottle in 5 to 6 minutes or less.

Help your child brush his or her own teeth until age 7 or 8. Have the child watch you brush, and follow the same brushing pattern to reduce missed spots.

Limit foods and treats that increase tooth decay. This includes hard or sticky candies, fruit leather, and sweetened drinks and juice. Offer fruit rather than juice. The fiber in fruit tends to scrape the teeth clean. Juice just exposes the teeth to sugar.

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Adolescent Problems of the Teeth and Mouth

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When Should Baby Visit the Dentist for the First Time?

When to schedule baby's first dental visit, how to choose a dentist for your child, read this next, what happens at baby's first dentist visit, tips to make your child’s dentist visit easier, how often to visit the dentist.

Based on how your toddler’s teeth look, your dentist will let you know when to make the next visit. Most experts recommend that toddlers see the dentist about every six months — as long as there are no major problems. So don’t forget to schedule your child’s second appointment on your way out the door!

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd Edition, Heidi Murkoff. What to Expect the Second Year , Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Toddler Dental Care , March 2019. WhatToExpect.com, Is Your Toddler Teething? , April 2020. WhatToExpect.com, Preventing Cavities and Keeping Baby's Teeth Healthy , April 2020. WhatToExpect.com, Brushing Baby's Teeth , July 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Baby's First Tooth: 7 Facts Parents Should Know , November 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Good Oral Health Starts Early , November 2020 American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Frequently Asked Questions , 2021. American Dental Association, Taking Care of Your Child’s Smile , May 2014.

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A child's first dental visit fact sheet.

When should your child first see a dentist? You can take your child at a younger age, but experts recommend taking your child within 6 months of the first tooth coming in (erupting), or by about 12 months at the latest.

At this time, the dentist can give you information on:

Baby bottle tooth decay

Infant feeding practices

Mouth cleaning

Pacifier habits

Finger-sucking habits

Prepare your child

If possible, schedule morning appointments so young children are alert and fresh.

Prepare a preschooler or older child for the visit by giving them a general idea of what to expect. You can tell them about the exam room, the instruments they might see, the face masks the dentist and hygienist may wear, and the bright exam light. Explain why it is important to go to the dentist. Build excitement and understanding.

Prepare yourself

Discuss your questions and concerns with the dentist. Remember that your feeling toward dental visits can be quite different from your child's. Be honest with your view of the dentist. If you have dental anxieties, be careful not to relate those fears or dislikes to your child. Parents need to give moral support by staying calm while in the dental exam room. Children can pick up parents' anxieties and become anxious themselves.

Prepare the dentist

If you don't know the dentist, interview the person first to see if they sound right for your child's needs and personality. At the first visit, give the dentist your child's complete health history. For a restoration visit, such as getting a cavity filled, tell the dentist if your child tends to be stubborn, defiant, anxious, or fearful in other situations. Ask the dentist how they handle such behavior. If you aren't comfortable with the answer, find another dentist.

Watch how your child reacts. Many parents are able to guess how their child will respond and should tell the dentist. Certain behaviors may be linked to your child's age:

10 to 24 months. Some securely attached children may get upset when taken from their parents for an exam.

2 to 3 years. A securely attached child may be able to cope with a brief separation from parents. In a 2-year-old, "no" may be a common response.

3 years. Three-year-olds may not be OK being apart from a parent when having a dental procedure, such as getting a cavity filled. This is because most 3-year-olds are not socially mature enough to separate from parents.

4 years. Most children should be able to sit in another room from parents for exams and treatment procedures.

The first visit

Your child's first dental visit is to help your child feel comfortable with the dentist. The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. If needed, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. The dentist may show you and your child correct home cleaning, such as flossing, and advise you on the need for fluoride. Baby teeth fall out, so X-rays aren’t often done. But your child's dentist may recommend X-rays to diagnose decay, depending on your child's age. X-rays are also used to see if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be affecting an adult tooth. In general, it is best that young children not have dental X-rays unless absolutely needed.

The second visit

Just like adults, children should see the dentist every 6 months. Some dentists may schedule visits more often, such as every 3 months. This can build comfort and confidence in the child. More frequent visits can also help keep an eye on a developmental problem. Talk to your dentist about payment options if the cost of dental care is a problem for you.

Protect your children's teeth at home

 Here are some tips to protect your children's teeth:

Before teeth come in, clean gums with a clean, damp cloth.

Start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) when your child's first tooth appears. Use a pea-sized dab of fluoridated toothpaste after 3 years of age. Children should spit after brushing. Encourage them not to swallow extra toothpaste.

Prevent baby bottle tooth decay. Only put breastmilk or formula in bottles. Don't give children a bottle of juice, soft drinks, or sweetened liquid.

Limit the time your child has a bottle. Children should finish bottles before going to sleep.

Encourage your child to use a cup around their first birthday.

Help your child brush their teeth until age 7 or 8. Have the child watch you brush and follow the same brushing pattern to reduce missed spots.

Limit foods and treats that increase tooth decay. This includes hard or sticky candies, fruit leather, and sweetened drinks and juice. Offer fruit rather than juice. The fiber in fruit tends to scrape the teeth clean. Juice just exposes the teeth to sugar.

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Your Baby's First Dental Visit

Your baby is hitting new milestones every day, and his or her first dental visit is another one to include in the baby book!

Your child’s first dental visit should take place after that first tooth appears , but no later than the first birthday. Why so early? As soon as your baby has teeth , he or she can get cavities. Being proactive about your child’s dental health today can help keep his or her smile healthy for life. (Need a dentist? Use our Find-A-Dentist tool to find one in your area.)

How to Prepare

Moms and dads can prepare, too. When making the appointment, it can’t hurt to ask for any necessary patient forms ahead of time. It may be quicker and easier for you to fill them out at home instead of at the office on the day of your visit.

Make a list of questions, as well. If your child is teething , sucking his or her thumb  or using a pacifier  too much, your dentist can offer some advice.

What to Expect During the Visit

If your child cries a little or wiggles during the exam, don’t worry. It’s normal, and your dental team understands this is a new experience for your child!

Tips for a Great Visit

• Don’t schedule an appointment during naptime. Instead, pick a time your child is usually well-rested and cooperative.
• Make sure your child has had a light meal and brushes their teeth before their appointment so they won’t be hungry during their visit.
• Save snacks for after the visit so they aren’t on your child’s teeth during the exam.
• Think of the appointment as a happy and fun experience. If your child becomes upset during the visit, work with your dentist to calm your child. You’re on the same team!

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Your child’s first dental visit 

A child’s first visit to the dentist is an exciting milestone. But it’s also an important appointment that can help set them on a lifelong path toward good oral health.

The right time to schedule a first visit is within six months of their first tooth coming in, or no later than their first birthday. This timing is crucial because it’s important to: 

Learn how to help your child avoid cavities and reduce health risks.

Find out who to call if there is an emergency.

Get to know your child’s dentist.

In the long run, you’ll also save money by learning how to take care of your child’s oral health and reducing the risk of more serious or expensive issues. 

Getting your child ready 

In advance of the visit, give them an idea of what to expect:

Go over what will happen at the appointment (more on that below). And be sure not to pass on any personal fear you may have of dentists to your child.  Give them every opportunity to enjoy their first visit.

Explain why it’s important to go to the dentist and how it keeps them healthy.

Take time to answer any questions they may have. 

Try to schedule a morning appointment when your child is likely to be more awake and attentive. 

The day of the visit, go over what to expect one more time. Don’t share any negative experiences that you or other family members may have had with the dentist – instead, remain calm and positive! Your child will likely mirror the feelings you express about the appointment.

It can help to bring a comfort item or quiet game so they can have a little fun while they wait. It’s also an option to plan a positive reward for after the appointment.

What will happen during the visit?

During the routine exam, the dentist will check your child for cavities and review overall growth and development. The dentist will also demonstrate how to properly brush and floss your child’s teeth at home to make sure you’re as effective as possible in removing the plaque bacteria from all tooth surfaces.

To help you continue to care for your child’s oral health, you and your dentist will also: 

Discuss food, drinks, and habits that can cause cavities and healthy alternatives

Review the vital role fluoride plays in strengthening tooth enamel and protecting your child’s smile

Be given helpful information for preventing accidents as your child grows

Why is it important to practice good oral health care from an early age? Because untreated oral health issues will continue to worsen over time – and more than half of children ages 6 to 8 have had a cavity in at least one baby tooth. 1

By taking your child to the dentist, you’re pointing them toward the path of good oral health. Prepare a little in advance to make sure it’s a great appointment! 

1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

As a parent, you’re always on the lookout for your child’s well-being, and their dental health is no exception. When it comes to oral care, starting early is key to ensuring a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. One of the most important steps you can take is scheduling your child’s first dental visit at the right time. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) , this should ideally happen by the age of 12 months or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth.

Why is this initial dental visit so crucial? Let’s delve into the reasons and understand why early intervention matters when it comes to your child’s dental health.

1. Establishing a Dental Home: The concept of a “dental home” is emphasized by the AAPD. This refers to an ongoing relationship between your child and their dentist, starting from an early age. By establishing a dental home early on, you ensure that your child receives continuous, comprehensive dental care tailored to their specific needs. This not only fosters trust and familiarity but also allows for timely preventive measures and interventions if any dental issues arise.

2. Early Detection of Dental Problems: Even though your child’s baby teeth will eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in their oral development and overall health. Tooth decay can occur as soon as the first tooth erupts, making early dental visits essential for monitoring your child’s dental health and detecting any problems early on. From cavities to developmental issues, a pediatric dentist can identify and address potential concerns before they escalate into more significant problems.

3. Guidance on Oral Care: Parents often have questions about the best practices for taking care of their child’s teeth and gums. During the first dental visit, you’ll receive valuable guidance from the pediatric dentist on oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, fluoride supplementation, and diet tips to promote healthy teeth. This information empowers you to take an active role in your child’s oral care regimen and instill good habits from an early age.

4. Building Positive Dental Experiences: For many children, visiting the dentist can be intimidating or even frightening. However, by starting dental visits early and making them a positive experience, you help alleviate any fears or anxieties your child may have about dental care. Pediatric dentists are trained to create a friendly, welcoming environment that puts children at ease, making each visit a positive and stress-free experience. This sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health habits and regular dental check-ups.

5. Preventive Care and Education: Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to dental health. By taking your child to the dentist early on, you have the opportunity to proactively prevent dental problems before they occur. Through preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish application and dental sealants, as well as education on proper oral hygiene and nutrition, your child’s dentist can help safeguard their teeth against decay and other oral health issues.

The importance of your child’s first dental visit cannot be overstated. By following the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry to schedule this visit by the age of 12 months or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth, you lay the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. From early detection and prevention of dental problems to guidance on oral care practices and building positive dental experiences, this initial visit sets the stage for your child’s lifelong dental journey. So don’t wait – schedule that first dental appointment at Cumberland Valley Pediatric Dentistry today and give them the gift of a healthy smile for years to come.

• May 6, 2024
• blog , Children's Dentistry

Come join us for Tooth Fairy Time on

May 16, 2024.

When: Thursday,   May 16th, 2024

What Time: 5:30pm – 7:00pm

Where: CVPD, 201 St Johns Church Rd, Camp Hill, PA 17011

We are thrilled to welcome the staff from Lively Hive to Tooth Fairy Time. Join us at CVPD on May 16 from 5:30-7pm to play with us!

The staff from Lively Hive will set up engaging & crowd-favorite games and activities through stations that will focus on play, sensory, and motor skills at Tooth Fairy Time. The planned games and activities are geared mostly for ages 0-6, but all ages are always welcome, and the older kids can certainly help the younger friends/family members. Reserve your spot, today!

503-477-9911

What Is the Youngest Age to Go to the Dentist?

  503-477-9911

It’s never too early to start thinking about your baby’s dental care. Encouraging good dental habits at a young age can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. While you can start cleaning your baby’s teeth on your own at home as soon as their teeth begin to appear, knowing when to take your child to the dentist can be less clear.

Below, you’ll learn when a child should see the dentist for the first time, how to prepare for your child’s first dentist appointment and what to expect at the office. Keep reading to discover how to take the best care of your child’s oral health.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• When Should A Child See the Dentist for the First Time
• Why It Is Important for Children to Visit the Dentist Early On
• How to Prepare Your Child for the Dentist
• What Happens at a Baby’s First Dentist Appointment

When Should a Child See the Dentist for the First Time?

A child should have their first dentist appointment  by the time they’re 1 year old , according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Once a baby starts teething, they should see the dentist within six months of their first tooth coming in. Because infants usually  begin teething between 3 and 6 months old , a baby’s first dentist visit typically happens right around their first birthday.

Dentists take care of more than just teeth — a dental checkup can be beneficial to your infant’s oral health regardless of whether they have teeth yet or not. Even if your child begins teething later than the average age, you can still take them to see the dentist before they develop a tooth. If your child has not gotten a tooth by the time of their first birthday, you should go ahead and bring them in for a dentist visit anyway.

Of course, every child is different, and the answer to “When should I take my child to the dentist?” can vary. Although experts recommend taking your baby to see a pediatric dentist around their first birthday, there is no need to distress if you miss this milestone. Many parents don’t quite hit the one-year mark. It’s common for a young child’s first dentist appointment to happen at age 2, 3 or even 4.

Regardless of when you choose to schedule your child’s first dental exam, make sure you book the appointment with a  reputable board certified pediatric dentist . Just like you would take your baby to a pediatrician for their primary care physician, taking your child to a pediatric dentist ensures they see a qualified professional with expertise in working with children.

Pediatric dentists are specialists who have received extra training beyond dental school to learn how to treat children and provide them with the best experience and care possible. A reliable pediatric dentist will be able to adapt to your child’s age, developmental readiness and temperament to make their first dentist visit comfortable and enjoyable.

Why Is It Important for Children to Go to the Dentist Early On?

Now that you know when you should schedule your baby’s first dentist appointment, it’s time to discuss why you should make it. Discover the importance of a child’s first dental visit with the following advantages:

1. Establish Healthy Oral Care Habits

Children should see the dentist early in their lives because it’s essential to form good oral hygiene habits from the very first tooth. Even before your baby gets their first tooth, you can introduce them to healthy oral hygiene practices by routinely wiping their gums with a damp cloth. Once you start to notice teeth popping in through your child’s gums, begin brushing their gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Those practices and regular dental visits will set your child up with healthy dental hygiene habits early on.

2. Prevent Tooth Decay

Visiting the dentist early in life can help your child avoid tooth decay and other oral health problems. About  20% of children experience untreated tooth decay , but you can help prevent this issue by taking your baby to the dentist.

3. Protect Overall Health

Taking your child to the dentist at an early age can help preserve their oral health and general health. Introducing your child to good oral hygiene early on will ensure they have healthy gums and teeth, which will allow them to chew and speak comfortably.

Teaching your children to take care of their oral health early can also help them avoid serious health issues later in life. Concerns like heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis have a  strong link with oral health . Taking the initiative to schedule a dental exam for your child early can protect their oral and overall health for years to come.

4. Provide Parental Education

An early dentist visit can benefit the parents just as much as their infant. At the appointment, your dentist can show you  how to clean your baby’s teeth  and gums properly. They can also supply you with clear instructions on how to prevent tooth decay and other dental problems. Your dentist can address other key childhood dental concerns throughout the appointment based on your infant’s needs, as well.

In particular, your dentist can provide you with information about these topics during your baby’s first dental exam:

• Mouth cleaning
• Infant feeding practices
• Baby bottle tooth decay
• Pacifier habits
• Finger-sucking habits
• Any other infant dental issues you may have questions about

5. Create Positive Associations

Helping your child grow accustomed to visiting the dentist at an early age will teach them that going to the dentist’s office is nothing to worry about.  Approximately 36% of people  experience some anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist. But you can minimize the chances of your child developing these negative feelings by helping them create positive associations with the dentist’s office.

The memories we create in our earliest years can impact us for the rest of our lives, so you should provide your child with fond memories of going to the dentist. At your child’s initial dental exams, the dentist will not do much poking or prodding. Instead, the appointments will be used more as opportunities for your child to become comfortable at the office.

These first few visits will allow your child to familiarize themselves with the staff and build trust with them. Only once your child is comfortable, the dentist will take a look at their mouth. This positive dentist-patient relationship will help your child feel more relaxed about visiting the dentist in the future. Who knows — they may even grow to look forward to each dental appointment!

How Do I Prepare My Child for the Dentist?

While your child’s first dentist appointment may seem daunting, you can make the visit feel more manageable by preparing for it. Being well-prepared will put both you and your child at ease. To help your child’s first dentist visit go smoothly, here are tips on how to prepare your child, yourself and your dentist.

How to Prepare Your Child

The first step to preparing your child for visiting the dentist is to schedule an early morning appointment when your child is fresh and at their most alert. You also want to ensure your child feels as safe and comfortable as possible about going to the dentist’s office. The best way to help your child feel calm is to remain calm yourself. Your child will pick up on your positive view of the dentist and most likely react similarly.

Of course, preparation for visiting the dentist depends on your child’s age, and an infant will not understand as much as a toddler. But babies can sense your tone of voice and feelings, so you should seem happy and excited when talking about their dental appointment. This positivity can have a significant impact on how your child feels about seeing the dentist.

If your child is old enough to have a discussion about seeing the dentist, try to give them a basic idea of what to expect at the visit. Explain in simple terms why going to the dentist is important and how it can help them grow up strong and healthy. You could also read age-appropriate books about the dentist with them to help them relax and alleviate the fear of the unknown.

During your discussion, make sure you choose your words carefully so you don’t frighten your child unnecessarily. Avoid using words that insinuate seeing the dentist will be painful, such as “shot,” “drilling” or “hurt.” Treating a visit to the dentist like it’s not a big deal will signal to your child there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Instead, use positive, non-threatening words to describe in plain language what the dentist will do during the appointment. Use phrases that will make sense to your child, such as telling them the dentist will “brush their teeth,” “count their teeth,” “clean their mouth” and “take pictures of their teeth.” Having some idea of what to expect can help your child feel more at ease with this new experience.

How to Prepare Yourself

Even though you won’t be the one receiving the dental exam, you’ll still need to prepare yourself for your child’s first dentist visit. Discuss any concerns you may have with the dentist before the day of the appointment. Come prepared with a list of any oral health questions you want to ask the dentist so you don’t forget anything important. 

If you have your own dental anxieties, be careful not to let those fears or negative associations influence your child’s view of the dentist. Because children can quickly pick up on their parent’s anxieties and become worried themselves, you can provide moral support by appearing relaxed and calm throughout the appointment.

How to Prepare the Dentist

For your child’s first dentist visit, you will need to provide the dentist with a record of your child’s health history to go over before the appointment. You will also want to let the dentist know if your child tends to be anxious, fearful, stubborn or defiant in certain situations. Depending on your child’s age, you may also alert the dentist of any behavioral or temperamental issues that may occur.

In general, these are the main problems linked with children’s ages:

• Infants:  Many babies under 1 year old are highly attached to their parents and do not react well to being removed from their parent’s side for the dental exam. To alleviate this, most infants will stay sitting on their parents’ lap during the dental exam.
• Toddlers:  By the time they reach 3 years, most children can cope with being away from their parents for a brief time. But they may not deal well with being separated for the entire duration of a dental procedure like getting a cavity filled. Therefore, we always allow (and encourage) parents to be in the room during the cleaning and exam.
• Four-year-olds:  Most children are able to be apart from their parents for dental exams and treatment procedures by the time they’re 4 years old. However, it is still important for parents to be present so they can listen to any feedback from the dental team.

What Happens at a Baby’s First Dentist Appointment?

Knowing what to expect at your baby’s first dentist appointment can help you be better prepared. The goal of a first dentist visit is mainly to introduce your child to the office and get them comfortable with the idea of dentistry. The appointment will take less than an hour and show your child the dentist’s office is a safe place to visit .

At Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, a  typical first dentist appointment  includes:

• A tour:  To get started, the dentist will show your child the dentist’s chair and the dental tools used for a checkup. They’ll briefly explain what happens when they look at your child’s mouth and teeth. For children who are old enough to understand, having a conversation about the exam and meeting the staff helps them feel calmer and safer. If your child is an infant, a short tour is still beneficial for helping parents to become familiar with the office and staff.
• An exam:  After the tour, the dentist will begin the exam portion of the visit. Children under 2 years of age will usually sit in their parent’s lap in the dentist’s chair to make them feel more comfortable. During the exam, the dentist will count and assess each tooth along with your child’s gums, bite and jaw.
• A thorough cleaning:  Each exam includes a routine cleaning, which may be very quick for babies with only a few teeth. For your child’s first visit, the dentist will use a regular toothbrush to complete the cleaning. Using a toothbrush instead of dental tools creates an opportunity to demonstrate proper at-home brushing techniques. Older children who can handle sitting in the dentist’s chair by themselves will receive a cleaning with a soft rubber polishing brush. That tool provides delicate teeth with a gentle, deep clean.
• A fluoride treatment:  The dentist might apply a fluoride treatment to help protect your child’s enamel and prevent cavities. Although the treatment used to be applied by placing Styrofoam trays filled with fluoride into patients’ mouths, dentists now simply paint a drop or two of a fluoride varnish treatment onto patients’ teeth with a brush. This method is far more comfortable than the old one, takes mere seconds and allows your child to eat or drink immediately following their appointment.

Schedule Your Child’s First Dentist Appointment With Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

If you’re looking for a friendly, caring dentist office to take your child to, schedule an appointment with Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. At Sprout, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality pediatric dental care in a warm and welcoming environment that kids will actually look forward to visiting. We even offer the option of watching a movie during dental exams and cleanings to help put children at ease.

Along with a thorough exam and cleaning, the Sprout team will offer oral hygiene tips like how to brush your baby’s teeth so you can ensure your child stays healthy in between visits.  Our dental team  loves children and their families and looks forward to becoming your regular pediatric dental choice. No referrals are needed for children to visit our office, so you can  book your appointment  today!

Dr. Dana  grew up in Portland and went to Temple University in Philadelphia, PA for dental school. She then moved to Anchorage, AK for her  residency in Pediatric Dentistry . Dr. Dana takes a holistic approach to pediatric dentistry & is able to use her own parenting experience to sympathize and understand each family’s unique dynamic.

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When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Appointment?

First tooth. first birthday. first dental appointment..

As a mom or dad to your little one, you get to experience so many ‘firsts’ right alongside them. Their first word, first day of school, and even their first dental appointment. We want to make your child’s first trip to the dentist a fun and memorable one that sets the tone of healthy habits your child will retain for a lifetime.

How old should my child be when they visit the dentist?

A common question new parents ask is, “How soon should I take my child to the dentist?” According to the American Association of Pediatric Dentists , it’s recommended that kids go in for their first oral health checkup when their baby teeth first begin to emerge or by the time their first birthday comes around. Though it may seem early, this visit is essential to ensure your child doesn’t have any signs of gum or tooth decay and that their teeth are erupting and developing properly. Baby teeth can begin emerging as early as six months, so make sure their dental appointment isn’t far behind!

Did you know that tooth decay is the most common childhood disease, yet it is almost always entirely preventable? Often times, kids will come in for their first appointment at three or four years old with cavities and tooth decay that could have been prevented with a routine checkup. That’s why it’s so important to start them young!

What should I expect at my child’s first visit to the dentist?

Our doctors and staff take extra care to make sure your child has fun at their dental visit and that they’re as comfortable as possible. If your child is nervous about their first dental appointment, we always welcome parents to bring their child by our office to take a look around, meet the staff, and get acclimated to our clinic before your visit with us! If you think this would help your child, feel free to give us a call to schedule a tour of our office.

At your child’s dental appointment, a hygienist will: 

• Examine and clean your baby’s teeth
• Show you how to play a role in properly cleaning your baby’s teeth (we know it’s not always easy with those tiny little mouths!),
• Discuss diet and fluoride needs
• Recommend oral care products.

Your dentist will then join you and your baby. They will:

• Examine your baby’s mouth closely to check for any tooth decay
• Share any concerns they may have regarding your baby’s oral development.
• Answer all of your questions regarding your baby’s teeth and oral development.

At your child’s first dental appointment, the doctor may conduct what we call a knee-to-knee exam . This technique will help your child feel even more comfortable since they’ll be laid in your lap as we go through their oral health checkup. Your baby’s visit will conclude by us providing a patient dental health bag, complete with a specially-sized infant or toddler toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. Find out more about what to expect when accompanying your child to their dental checkup . Online Form – CDH – Organic

Ready to get your child’s smile on track?

To schedule your child’s first appointment, give us a call at 1-(866) KIDS-DENTAL .

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A Child’s First Dental Visit

An exploration of why the age 1 visit is a game changer in terms of overall oral health and childhood caries.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

After reading this course, the participant should be able to:

• Explain the concept and value of a dental home and the Age 1 dental visit, as well as utilization rates for this model of care.
• Describe fundamental clinical practices and challenges when caring for infants and young children.
• Detail key issues surrounding childhood caries and the need to educate parents and caregivers of young pediatric patients.

For the better part of the last 100 years, dentistry followed the “see and treat” concept; meaning that oral health care was, for the most part, treatment oriented. Dentists did what they were trained to do, which was to treat dental caries. Most patients visited the dentist to address a specific problem (usually prompted by the occurrence of pain). Many did not consider primary teeth important, since they were looked upon as being transitional, and would soon be exfoliated and replaced by permanent teeth. In fact, in the 1950s some dental offices had signs in their waiting rooms proclaiming, “No children under age 13 treated.”

With an increase in the knowledge of the dental caries process, dentists gradually began to see children at earlier ages. Many dentists were ill equipped to communicate with and/or treat such young patients; consequently, the recommended age for the child’s first dental visit was on or after the 3rd birthday. Dentistry for patients under the age of 3 was largely approached didactically and not clinically. Prevention of dental disease for this group was a mere afterthought.

PARADIGM SHIFT

Once dental caries was understood as a chronic bacterial disease with a behavioral component, the paradigm shifted from treating the resulting damage to addressing the cause (prevention). In turn, this shift had a significant impact on determining the optimal age for the first dental visit.

Dentistry will never “drill its way out” of the early childhood caries (ECC) epidemic. For practitioners to succeed in the fight against ECC, they must improve preventive efforts and manage lesions in their earliest stages. A patient’s risk of developing dental caries starts with the introduction of oral pathogens into an infant’s mouth; therefore, first seeing the dentist at age 3 could prove too late. The age 1 visit not only allows for preventive therapies and early treatment, it also benefits the child by helping to establish optimal feeding and oral hygiene habits.

In a 1992 policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics proposed a definition of the medical home and referred to the “delivery of advanced primary care, with the goal of addressing and integrating high quality health promotion, acute care, and chronic condition management in a planned, coordinated and family centered manner.” 2 In 2001, the AAPD adopted its Policy on the Dental Home, based on the American Academy of Pediatrics’ medical home concept. Children who have a dental home are more likely to receive appropriate and routine preventive care and thus have a reduced risk of dental disease. 3

The recommendation for a child’s first dental visit to occur at or before age 1 has been the standard since 2001. Yet, practically speaking, dentistry for patients under the age of 3 continues to be largely spoken of didactically, and not widely implemented clinically in general practice. This is not a criticism as much as an observation. Dentists are busy addressing the functional and physical effects of dental caries and have little time to address the process. Many have not been adequately trained to understand the purpose and method of introducing the age 1 patient to clinical practice. This article will explain the rationale, benefit and technique for implementing the age 1 dental visit. The goal is to make dental practitioners comfortable and competent in meeting this standard of care.

RATIONALE FOR EARLY CARE

Dental caries is a preventable, chronic disease that is influenced by social and behavioral factors. Improving access to — and the use of — preventive and disease management strategies, along with early dental visits, will contribute to better patient outcomes, reduction of per capita health care expenses, and improved utilization of services.

According to research, annual treatment costs for children who had their first dental visit by age 1 are significantly less than for patients who wait until they are older. 4 Children seen by a dentist before age 1 are more likely to see the dentist on an ongoing basis, and less likely to require restorative or emergency visits. By comparison, those seen for the first time at age 2 and age 3 have an increased need for preventive, restorative and emergency visits over time. 5

Unfortunately, 23% of children continue to experience dental caries, with children from ages 2 to 5 experiencing increasing rates. 6 In 2015, 57% of children on Medicaid did not receive preventive oral health services. 7 Previous research showed that Medicaid patients ages 1 to 5 accounted for 45% of total dental costs, even though this age group represented only 5% of the insured population. 6 In a 2015 retrospective review of privately insured patients, only 1% had their first dental visit by age 1. 8

It is logical to ask, “If so much could be done to enhance oral health with effective preventive strategies implemented in the first year of life, why hasn’t dentistry been more effective in this regard?” This is a good question with a complex answer.

Seldom is a patient under the age of 3 cooperative in the dental office. If the dentist’s role is only restorative, there is a dilemma of how to perform complicated procedures on kicking, screaming and crying patients. In years past, many dentists were ill prepared to cope with such patients, therefore treatment was delayed until after the patients were better able to cooperate, usually after their 3rd birthday.

Only recently have the age 1 visit, the value of a dental home, and the clinical skills to complete an infant oral examination been emphasized in dental school curricula. While practicing general dentists may have been exposed to these concepts, as previously noted, many have not been trained in the delivery of care for such young patients.

In addition, dentists are trained to diagnose and restore the consequences of dental disease. Far too often, dentistry is viewed as a surgical specialty, and the schedules of many dentists are customarily filled with patients having broken-down teeth needing immediate attention. If this pattern is to be reversed, there must be a complete paradigm shift emphasizing preventive care and, when possible, nonsurgical management.

THE THREE PILLARS

A proper infant oral examination visit rests upon three pillars:

• Risk assessment
• Oral examination
• Anticipatory guidance

Risk Assessment: Effective infant preventive dentistry begins with an assessment of individual risk factors, as established through the medical, social and dental histories (Table 1). Preventive strategies are subsequently developed to address the patient’s specific risk. These activities occur before the patient’s oral exam and are aimed at providing the primary caregiver with adequate information to reduce the risk of dental caries.

Special attention should be given to the primary caregiver’s dental history. The infant’s oral pathogens are the result of vertical transmission from the primary caregiver. Untreated caries and high bacterial counts from periodontal conditions in the caregiver’s mouth result in the infant having a bacterial flora conducive to caries development. 9

Feeding habits affect caries risk through both what is eaten, and how it is eaten. Carbohydrate-rich diets are highly cariogenic and should be limited. Feeding on demand and/or at night leads to what was formerly referred to as “baby bottle decay,” but now is now known as ECC. 10 The American Academy of Pediatrics recommend infants be breastfed until age 1. 11 Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding should not be ad lib. Feeding at night increases the risk of caries formation. During sleep, the body’s systems slow and respirations and the heart rate decreases. There is also reduced salivary flow, and this diminishes the natural cleaning and buffering effect of saliva.

Oral Examination: The examination of the infant’s oral cavity takes place in a knee-to-knee fashion (Figure 1). The dentist cradles the infant’s head in his or her lap while supporting the head. The caregiver holds the infant’s hands and feet. It is normal and beneficial for the infant to cry, as this ensures the mouth is open and an adequate visual examination is possible. The dentist should communicate throughout the examination and remain complimentary of the infant and caregiver. Clinical observations should be pointed out, and the provider should demonstrate proper technique for cleaning the teeth using a gauze, toothbrush or washcloth. Finally, fluoride varnish should be applied. (Additional clinical resources are found in Table 2.)

Anticipatory Guidance: In terms of diet and feeding habits, breastfeeding should be encouraged and added carbohydrates avoided. Feeding should be on a schedule and infants should never be put to bed with a bottle. Water after feeding should also be encouraged.

The child should be introduced to toothbrushing when the first tooth erupts. A soft-bristle brush with an age-appropriate amount of fluoridated toothpaste is recommended (refer to the AAPD’s guideline on fluoride use). As noted, the dentist should demonstrate the technique to the caregiver during the knee-to-knee examination. Other sources of fluoride include drinking fluoridated water and use of fluoride varnish, which should be placed on primary teeth at each dental visit.

TOOTH ERUPTION

NONNUTRITIVE HABITS

Nonnutritive oral habits are common in infants. The caregiver should be assured these are normal and that most infants discontinue them in time. Persistent habits that are causing distortion of the oral cavity can be addressed when the patient is mature enough to want to quit. Until then, the dentist should monitor the habit and any resulting oral changes it is causing.

RECALL VISITS

High-risk patients should be placed on a three-month recall schedule. Fluoride varnish should be applied at these visits. Additional anticipatory guidance information should be reemphasized at each appointment. More information on the infant examination can be found in the AAPD Guideline for Infant Oral Health Care ( aapd.org/ media/ Policies_ Guidelines/ G_ InfantOralHealthCare.pdf ).

Dentists who provide care for pediatric patients are highly encouraged to adopt the age 1 visit. It is the standard of care for young patients and supported by the AAPD, American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatrics. While preventive measures are important for all patients, waiting to institute these measures at age 3 would be too late for patients at high risk of dental caries. The patient with ECC will require more dental care, incur more expense, and is likely to face a lifetime of caries. For dentistry to address this dilemma in any significant way requires intervention upon the eruption of the first primary tooth.

Just as pediatricians are the primary medical care providers for infants, dentists are the primary oral health care providers for this patient population. The role and responsibility of the dentist is to provide education and training to the parents/caregivers and, when appropriate, the child, too. The value of the child’s first dental visit, and subsequent routine appointments, is not merely the dental prophylaxis. It is the supervision and educational information the parent/caregiver and patient receives from the dental team that will provide a lifetime of value in terms of oral and overall health.

• American Academy of Pediatrics. Maintaining and improving the oral health of young children. Section on oral health. Pediatrics. 2014;134:1224–1229.
• American Academy of Pediatrics. Medical Home definition. Available at: https://www.aap.org/en-us/professional-resources/practice-transformation/ medicalhome/Pages/home.aspx. Accessed January 17, 2019.
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Definition of Dental Home. Available at: http://www.aapd.org/ media/policies_guidelines/d_dentalhome.pdf. Accessed January 17, 2019.
• Dye BA, Thornton-Evans G, Li X, Iafolla TJ. Dental caries and sealant prevalence in children and adolescents in the United States, 2011–2012. NCHS Data Brief . 2015;191:1–8.
• Nowak A, Christensen JR, Mabry TR, Townsend JA, Wells MH. Pediatric Dentistry: Infancy through Adolescence . 6th ed. Philidelphia: Saunders; 2018:137.6.
• Lee JY, Bouwens TJ, Savage MF, Vann WF Jr. Examining the cost-effectiveness of early dental visits. Pediatr Dent . 2006;28:102–105.
• Casamassimo PS, Hammersmith K, Gross EL, Amini H. Infant oral health: an emerging dental public health measure. Dent Clin North Am . 2018;62:235–244.
• Kolstad C, Zavras A, Yoon RK. Cost-benefit analysis of the age one dental visit for the privately insured. Pediatr Dent . 2015;37:376–380.
• Dye BA, Vargas CM, Lee JJ, Magder L, Tinanoff N. Assessing the relationship between children’s oral health status and that of their mothers. J Am Dent Assoc . 2011;142:173–183.
• Kierce EA, Rainchuso L. Comprehensive approach to early childhood caries. Decisions in Dentistry. 2017;3(12):34–36,39.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics Policy on Breastfeeding. Available at: https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/ Breastfeeding/Pages/AAP-Policy-on-Breastfeeding.aspx. Accessed   January 17, 2019.

Featured image by ONDROOO/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS

From Decisions in Dentistry.  February 2019;5(2):30—32,35.

Orpheus L. Triplett, DDS, is an associate professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Community Oral Health at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry, where he serves as director of Community Relations and Outreach. Triplett has more than 20 years experience in private practice and has also served as dental director for Christ Community Health Services, a multisite federally qualified health center in Memphis.

Larry Dormois, DDS, MS, is chair of Pediatric Dentistry and Community Oral Health at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry in Memphis. Board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, he is also a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American College of Dentists. Dormois serves as an examiner for the American Board of Dentistry and is a site visitor for the Council on Dental Accreditation with the American Dental Association. He can be reached at [email protected].

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Brushing is should start as soon as teeth appear, which can be as early as 4 months. Babies usually get bottom teeth first, then top ones. Don’t get too worked up about when baby teeth come in.

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When To Take Your Child To The Dentist For The First Time

Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications

As a new parent, your baby isn't the only one experiencing the world for the first time. You're experiencing a lot of new things, too! Like going to regular dental visits...  for someone else . Even if you feel comfortable and confident about your own oral health, a lot of questions may start to arise surrounding dental visits for your little one. If you're unsure of when to take your child to the dentist for the first time and what to expect from your visit, we'll give you some key info about caring for your infant's oral hygiene that you can both smile about.

When Should You Plan Your Child's First Visit?

If you see a tooth, it's time! That's right; you should take your little one to the dentist as soon as their first tooth comes in. The American Dental Association (ADA) says that usually happens at about 6 months old. Regardless of when your child's first tooth erupts, don't wait until after their first birthday to make an appointment.

Also, if you notice anything that looks abnormal in your child's mouth (white spots, lesions, bleeding, etc.), make an appointment right away.

Why Start Taking Your Child to the Dentist So Early?

According to the American Association of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) , tooth decay affects nearly 1 in 5 children under 5. By catching any developing conditions early, your dental professional will be able to diagnose and treat them effectively. They will do what they can to ensure your baby is set up to have a healthy smile for life. Your pediatric dentist will be able to check for tooth decay, injuries, and other issues during your visit and will be able to track changes in your baby's mouth as they age.

Choosing a Pediatric Dentist

You may want to bring your child to your personal dentist, but there are various reasons to go to a pediatric dentist instead. They specialize in growing children with little mouths and tend to know how to make a frightening experience for some kids a lot of fun.

The special-sized dental equipment for exams is also important. The exam room decor should be appealing to youngsters too, like brightly colored wall paint and engaging murals. Games, kids' magazines, and perhaps a fish tank in the waiting area go a long way toward easing uncertainty and apprehension.

Pediatric dentists work hard to keep the smiles of kids bright and healthy. When a dental visit is a positive experience, children may be happy to return every six months for their checkup. And for that, you will be smiling, too.

How To Prepare for Your Baby’s First Dentist Visit

Even before your baby's pearly whites make their first appearance, it's important to gently clean their gums with a cloth (or gauze) and water, especially after breastfeeding. You can use a soft toothbrush designed for children's mouths as well, but don't start using fluoridated toothpaste until your child is at least 2 years old. When teeth are forming, the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  states that fluoride use can cause fluorosis. Fluorosis can cause spots on teeth, discoloration, and in severe forms, can even create pits in teeth. Having a gum-cleaning routine will accustom your child very early to a daily dental routine and help your infant be more comfortable at their first dentist visit.

Other steps you can take to prepare for your baby's first visit include:

• Showing videos to your child about first dental visits, so it's not an entirely new experience.
• Filling out paperwork ahead of your visit, so you and your baby aren't stuck in the waiting room for too long.
• Coming up with a list of questions you may have about practicing good oral hygiene for your baby.

What To Expect When You Take Your Baby to the Dentist

During your baby's first visit, you'll be in the room with them. If they are squirming or won't sit still in the dental chair, the dental professional may even have them sit on your lap to make the experience as comfortable as possible. They will perform a routine examination, looking for tooth decay, and checking your child's gums, jaw, and bite, and looking for frenum issues or other problems that may affect teeth or speech patterns. Then they'll carefully clean your baby's teeth and gums, advise you on how best you can properly care for your child's mouth, and then they will answer any questions you may have.

Most dental professionals recommend coming in for appointments at least twice a year, but ask your pediatric dentist what they recommend for your child's individual needs. There's a lot to think about as a new parent, and a pediatric dentist will be able to guide you and your child in the coming years toward a lifetime of good oral health. Happy brushing!

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider. 

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What’s the Right Age for a Child’s First Dentist Visit?

by University General Dentists Team Member | May 7, 2019 | Dentistry , Oral Health , Pediatric Dentistry

Deciding the right time for a child’s first dentist visit can be tricky. There’s a vast amount of information online with, often, conflicting advice. Some dentists will advise that a child’s first dentist visit should come when all their baby teeth have come in around the age of 2 or 3, and still others will advise only to go in there this early if your child is experiencing issues with their teeth. We dug into the recommendations of countless general dentistry and pediatric dentists alike to get to the bottom of this intriguing question.

Child’s First Dentist Visit

Pediatric dentists tend to preach the “early and often” mantra when it comes to taking your child to the dentist for the first time. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association recommends taking your child to the dentist on their first birthday. Some children’s health practitioners say that it’s okay to wait until their second birthday if they have graduated from a bottle to a cup. This first dentist visit is more about allowing your little one to become familiar with the process and comfortable with visiting the dentist. This comfort with the dentist is established through exposure.

Benefits of Early Dental Visits

Some children don’t get their first tooth in their first year, and if this is your child, then you can delay their first dental visit until it does appear. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) , the average age of a child’s first dental visit is 2.6 years old. Visiting the dentist early in life helps ensure baby or primary teeth stay in place until they fall out naturally. This will not only set your child up for lifelong oral health but ensure that their bite develops at the proper rate and promotes a confident smile. Early visits to the dentist can also help in spotting and circumventing possible issues with spacing, the gums, or the alignment of your child’s teeth that might affect the emergence of an adult tooth or detect future problems early.

Waiting on First Dentist Visit

Many parents don’t receive guidance from their pediatrician, primary care physician, or general dentist regarding dental care for extremely young children. It’s not uncommon for parents to wait until the age of 4 or 5 before they go on their first dentist visit. In fact, a recent survey showed that 17% of parents waited until their child was older than four to go to the dentist. Dentists generally advise against waiting this long, as the risk of dental issues for your child begins as soon as their first tooth arrives. Waiting until children are approaching Kindergarten means that their teeth are more prone to cavities caused by plaque.

Knoxville Pediatric Dentistry & General Dentistry

Obviously, we care deeply about our children and their health. Just like so many health-related issues, everyone is different, and thus no traditional practice dictates when exactly your child should have their first dentist visit. It’s essential, however, not to delay starting your child on the right path to healthy habits. It could be younger than 1, or it could be two years old. By incorporating dental checkups and examinations early in life, parents can also make future trips much less stressful for everyone involved. Whether you have a pediatric dentist in your city or not, most general dentistry offices will see young children. Contact your local dentist to ask them for guidance about when your child should have their first dentist visit or with oral health questions regarding your child.

At University General Dentists, we offer dental care to patients of all ages.  Call us today to schedule your appointment at one of our two Knoxville, TN, locations–University of Tennessee Medical Center 865-305-9440 and West Knoxville at 865-500-5700 .

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Your Child's First Visit

The Canadian Dental Association recommends the assessment of infants, by a dentist, within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by one year of age. The goal is to have your child visit the dentist before there is a problem with his or her teeth. In most cases, a dental exam every six months will let your child's dentist catch small problems early.

Here are 3 reasons to take your child for dental exams:

• You can find out if the cleaning you do at home is working.
• Your dentist can find problems right away and fix them.
• Your child can learn that going to the dentist helps prevent problems.

Your dentist may want to take X-rays. X-rays show decay between the teeth. They will also show if teeth are coming in the way they should. Your child's dentist may also talk to you about fluoride.

Once your child has permanent molars, your dentist may suggest sealing them to protect them from cavities. A sealant is a kind of plastic that is put on the chewing surface of the molars. The plastic seals the tooth and makes it less likely to trap food and germs.

When your child goes for a dental exam, your dentist can tell you if crooked or crowded teeth may cause problems. In many cases, crooked teeth straighten out as the child's jaw grows and the rest of the teeth come in.

If they do not straighten out, your child may have a bite problem (also known as malocclusion). This can cause problems with eating and with teeth cleaning. It can also affect your child's looks and make him or her feel out of place.

Your dentist can suggest ways to treat this, or refer your child to an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dental specialist with 2 to 3 years of extra university training in this area.

The dentist says my child needs a filling in a baby tooth. Since the tooth is going to fall out, why bother?

Some primary (or baby) teeth will be in your child's mouth until age 12. The tooth that needs to be fixed may be one of those.

Broken teeth or teeth that are infected can hurt your child's health and the way your child feels about him or herself.

To do a filling, the dentist removes the decay and "fills" the hole with metal, plastic or other material. A filling can be a cheap and easy way to fix a problem that could be painful and cost more later because it stops decay from spreading deeper into the tooth.

If a filling is not done and decay spreads, the tooth may need to be pulled out. If this happens, your child may need a space maintainer to hold space for the permanent tooth.

When a baby (or primary) tooth is missing, the teeth on each side may move into the space. They can block the permanent tooth from coming in. To hold the space, your dentist may put a plastic or metal space maintainer on the teeth on each side of the space, to keep the teeth from moving in.

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First Dental Visit: Age Reasons Oral Health Status and Dental Treatment Needs among Children Aged 1 Month to 14 Years

Neha padung.

1-3 Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, School of Dental Sciences, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Sukhdeep Singh

Neha awasthi.

The aim of this study was to see the age and also the reasons for the child's first dental visit and to assess the oral health status and treatment desires.

Materials and methods

The study involved 133 children aged between 1 month and 14 years, who reported to the department of pediatric and preventive dentistry. All parents/legal guardians of the study participants gave written consent for participation in the study. Information on the child's age and reason for the dental visit were collected from a questionnaire given to parents. The children's dental condition was assessed by decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) and DMFT values.

Statistical analysis used

Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 and categorical data were compared by using Chi-square test. The level of significance was set at 0.05.

Age of the child for first dental visit was male: 85.7% at 9 years and female: 75.00% at 4 years. Majority of children who visited the dentist were age 7 years. The most common chief complaint about the primary visit was caries, and the second was tooth pain.

Children report for the primary dental visit most commonly solely after 7 years and for complaints like caries and tooth pain. Children make their first dental visit too late (usually at the age of 7 years) in reference to medical recommendations (between 6 and 12 months of life). More of restoration was the treatment of need by 47.00%. The results of this study indicate unhealthy oral health creating their first dental visit and low health awareness of parents and guardians.

How to cite this article

Padung N. First Dental Visit: Age Reasons Oral Health Status and Dental Treatment Needs among Children Aged 1 Month to 14 Years. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(4):394-397.

I ntroduction

Dental caries is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting children in developing countries. Early childhood caries, or tooth decay in children younger than 6 years, is the most common chronic disease among children. 1 - 3 Early childhood caries prevalence increases and leads to psychosocial, functional, and growing problems among children. Early childhood tooth decay is preventable and largely reversible in its early stages through self-care, use of professional services, and exposure to community interventions such as water fluoridation. During dental visits, children can receive an assessment for disease risk, early detection and treatment services, preventive care such as fluoride therapy, and anticipatory guidance. To ensure exposure to prevention early in life, professional organizations recommend that children have a dental home by 12 months of age. 4 One of the reasons for unsatisfactory dental health among the youngest population is the delay in the first visit of the child to the dentist. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that the child's first visit to the dentist should take place within 6 months of eruption of the first primary tooth and no later than at the age of 12 months (AAPD, 2014; ADA, 2000), 5 , 6 while other sources suggest 12–18 months as the optimal time for the first visit (Adamowicz-Klepalska, 2009; Marcinkowska et al., 2013). 7 , 8 Argentine researchers Furze and Basso indicate that the first dental visit of a preventive character should take place in the fourth month of intrauterine life. During this visit, the expectant mother receives information about caries, its infectivity, is instructed that the mother is the main source of transmittable Streptococcus mutans , and is advised on how to provide oral care to the child and possible preventive procedures. The aim of this visit is to stimulate the interest of the pregnant woman in her own health but also in the health of her unborn child (Furze and Basso). 9 The information offered to parents at the first visit could inspire greater interest in the child's dental health and could accordingly mitigate the course of caries. The child's first dental visit has a significant impact on shaping a positive attitude and tolerance towards further treatments and helps to develop trust in the dentist. Thus, exposing children to the dental setting at a very early age can diminish their dental anxiety, whereas early dental education may improve the parent's self-efficacy in managing the oral health of their children. 10 The ADA recognizes the patient's chief complaint as an essential component for the delivery of competent and quality oral health care. It serves as a source of information for both the care provider and the patient. Hence, the main aim of this study was to know the average age at which parents first seek dental care for their children and also to find out the common reasons for seeking dental care at the first visit to the School of Dental Sciences, Sharda University, Uttar Pradesh, India. 11

M aterials and M ethods

The research protocol obtained approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee, Ref. No. SU/SMS&R/76-A/2019/142 on 18 th October 2019. The study group consisted of 133 children who had their first dental visit. All subjects were patients and parents reporting to the outpatient department in the department of pediatrics and preventive dentistry. Sample selection of children in the age group of 1 month to 14 years, reporting to the department of pediatrics and preventive dentistry. Informed consent was obtained from parents. Data on the child's age and reason for the dental visit were collected by interviewing the parents; a clinical pro forma was designed to record data. The state of oral health and dental treatment needs were assessed based on clinical examination using mouth mirror and a dental probe. The reasons for their visit were divided into the following five categories:

• Prophylactic examination,
• Tooth pain,
• Tooth decay,
• Injury to tooth and associated structures,

Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Categorical data were compared by using Chi-square test. Continuous data were tested for normality by using Shapiro–Wilk test. Parametric tests of significance (independent t -test and one-way analysis of variance) were used for inferential statistics. Else, the nonparametric tests (Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U test) were used. The level of significance was set at 0.05.

A total of 134 children visited the department of pediatric and preventive dentistry for the first time between November 2019 and January 2020. Records of 133 children were utilized, of which 77 were male (mean 8.32 ± 3.147) and 56 were female (mean 8.02 ± 3.446) p -value shows 0.595, NS ( Table 1 ).

Mean age association between sex

Table 2 shows the mean DMF(T) among males (0.41 ± 1.122) was high as compared to females (0.41 ± 1.385) p -value shows 0.998 NS, the decayed, missing, filled surface [DMF(S)] among males (0.72 ± 1.933) was high as compared to females (0.77 ± 2.565) p -value shows 0.898 NS, DMF(T) among males (mean 2.37 ± 3.080) was high as compared to females (mean 2.13 ± 3.015) p -value 0.645 NS, DMF(S) among males (mean 5.06 ± 6.493) was high as compared to females (mean 4.20 ± 6.493) p -value 0.477 NS.

Oral health status

Majority of children who visited the dentist were of age 7 years ( Fig. 1 ). Most common chief complaint for their visit was tooth decay (male 43.60% and female 33.90%) ( Fig. 2 ). The predominant reason for the child's first dental visit was caries, the need for treatment was restoration with 47.00%, followed by pulp therapy 29.90% and extraction 21.60% ( Fig. 3 ). The youngest patient who required treatment due to caries-related complications was a boy aged 2 years, visiting the dentist due to toothache.

Mean age at first dental visit

Reason for the first dental visit

Prevalence of need for various treatments

D iscussion

The child oral health care ought to be seen because the foundation on which a lifetime of preventive education and dental care are often built so as to help assure the best oral health into childhood. Oral examination, anticipatory guidance together with preventive education, and acceptable therapeutic intervention for the child will enhance the chance for a lifetime of freedom from preventable oral unwellness, emphasized in education regarding the importance of oral health for general health and adequate dietary and healthful habits, moreover as basic info concerning dental caries, so as to encourage the parents to stick to a program. 12 The longer a child's initial dental visit is delayed, more the chances he or she is to develop serious dental issues that might doubtless deteriorate rapidly in the absence of correct care and treatment. Unobserved and untreated dental caries will result in infection and moderate to severe pain, which may actively prevent children from eating, sleeping, and enjoying daily activities, additionally ultimately resulting in high-priced dental treatment and, in some cases, early loss of teeth. These consequences might have an effect on children's overall health and development. Given these problems, the investigation of early dental visitation is warranted. 13

Most of the kids within the current study visited dental clinics for the primary time at the age of 7 years. These results were not in accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and AAPD tips. The mean age of kids visiting the dental workplace was more than the age suggested by the AAP, and therefore the AAPD, and this influences the dearth of information of parents about the age of the primary dental visit. The foremost common reasons for the primary dental visit were the presence of decayed teeth and dental pain perception. Only 2.60% of males and 4.40% females of children had visited the dentist for dental check-ups. Asymptomatic dental clinic attendance was not common in this report. This could provide evidence that parents are neither aware nor conscious of oral health prevention for their children. Very similar findings were presented by Wilk-Sieczak et al., who reported that 63% of children made their first dental visit due to the need for treatment (tooth decay and pain). 14 Daou et al. reported the reason for the first consultation; the most common was the presence of decayed teeth (50.9%) and dental pain perception (29.5%). 4 Yahya et al., Soxman, and Masiga in their respective studies suggested that the most common reason for the child's first dental visit was dental caries and its related complications. 15 - 17 Some study shows different reasons; Olatosi et al. reported the most common reason for visiting the dental clinic was dental pain (33.1%). 10 Ramakrishnan and Dharsini, in this retrospective study, the maximum number of children who reported their first dental visit was between 13 and 17 years (46%). The most common chief complaint for the visit was pain (47%) and the second common complaint was malocclusion (20%). 11

Results from the present study and other previous studies clearly suggest that universally, there are still no established practices for parents/caregivers to take their infants to visit the dentist at the recommended age. 12 Indian researchers reported an older age range for the child's first dental visit: Nino et al. indicated that children visit the dentist for the first time at age 7, 18 while a retrospective study by Meera et al. found that 59% of children have their first visit at the age of 6–12 years, and only 8.52% by the age of 3 years. 19 Studies carried out in Bulgaria by Mileva and Kondeva revealed that the greatest number of children making their first dental visit was 3–6 years old (51.9%), and the smallest number were those younger than 1 year (1.73%). 20

Ghimire et al. reported that in Nepal, most children making their first dental visit were 7–11 years old (52.7%), and only 7% were younger than 3 years. 21 Studies by Murshid found that in Saudi Arabia, most children visit the dentist at the age of 3–5 years (52.9%) and less often at the age under 3 years (32.2%). 22

In order to enhance oral health among children, it is essential that oral health-related education and education for motivating the parents of young children are provided throughout each dental visit. This additionally concerns pregnant women, who have been found to be a lot willing to follow all kinds of counsel throughout this period. 23 Cooperation in early childhood dental caries interference is additionally expected of non-dental medical employees (including pediatricians, general practitioners, and nurses). They should encourage their patients to schedule the primary dental visit for the child within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth, and also make sure visits take place regularly. 24

Limitation of this study is that few children were included (smaller sample size). It is counseled that in children below the age of 6 years, brushing with fluoridated dentifrice should be supervised so as to stop general systemic. Regarding the preventive program, most of the children need pit and fissure sealant application. However, the practicability of pit and fissure sealants in the Indian state of affairs is questionable. However, on a priority basis for selected clusters of school children, pit and fissure sealant application can be taken as preventive measures. An honest protocol for dental and oral care should be necessary, and skilled dental follow-up should be integrated into the medical follow-up.

C onclusion

Within the limitations of the study, children report for the first dental visit most commonly only after 7 years, and for complaints such as tooth decay and tooth pain. Children make their first dental visit too late in relation to medical recommendations (between 6 and 12 months of life). Parents sought dental care for their children, mainly for curative reasons, and the most predominant reason for the first dental visit was dental caries. The results of this study indicate that bad oral health, making their first dental visit too late, and low health awareness of parents and guardians.

Source of support: Nil

Conflict of interest: None

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