One of the most common questions new parents have is: When should my child first see a dentist?

The general recommendation is to schedule your child’s first dental visit when the first tooth appears or no later than the first birthday. That may sound early, but baby teeth can develop cavities soon after they erupt. An early visit also gives parents an opportunity to ask questions and learn how to care for their child’s developing smile.

Why Does a One-Year-Old Need to See a Dentist?

A one-year-old may have only a few teeth, but those teeth matter. Tooth decay can begin as soon as teeth emerge, and early dental visits are focused heavily on prevention, development and helping parents know what to do at home.

Dr. Chin can examine your child’s teeth and gums, look at how the mouth is developing and discuss habits that may affect dental health. It is also a good opportunity for parents to ask questions about brushing, fluoride, bottles and cups, thumb sucking, pacifiers, teething and diet.

What Happens at a Child’s First Dental Visit?

A first visit for a very young child is usually different from an adult dental appointment. The goal is to evaluate your child’s developing mouth while making the experience as comfortable and positive as possible.

Depending on your child’s age and individual needs, the visit may include:

• Reviewing your child’s health and dental history

• Examining the teeth, gums and developing mouth

• Looking for early signs of tooth decay or other concerns

• Discussing brushing and home dental care

• Talking about fluoride and cavity prevention

• Answering questions about your child’s dental development and oral habits

With infants and very young children, the examination may be brief. A parent or caregiver can often stay close to the child throughout the visit.

How Should I Prepare My Child for the First Visit?

Keep it simple and positive. Young children often take their cues from their parents, so there is usually no need to give a long explanation about everything that might happen.

A few simple approaches can help:

• Talk about the dentist in a calm, positive way

• Tell your child the dentist will look at and help take care of their teeth

• Avoid sharing your own dental fears in front of your child

• Bring questions or concerns you want to discuss with Dr. Chin

Most importantly, don’t worry if your young child is shy, hesitant or needs time to become comfortable. Children react differently to new experiences, and the first visit is part of beginning that relationship.

When Should You Start Brushing Baby Teeth?

Start brushing as soon as your baby’s first tooth appears. Use a soft, child-sized toothbrush and brush gently twice a day.

For children younger than 3, current dental guidance recommends using a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. From ages 3 through 6, use no more than a pea-sized amount and supervise brushing so your child learns to spit out the toothpaste rather than swallow it.

Dr. Chin can give you recommendations based on your child’s age, teeth, cavity risk and fluoride exposure.

What If My Child Is Already Older Than One?

Don’t worry about having missed the recommended first-visit age. If your child is 2, 3, 4 or older and hasn’t seen a dentist yet, the right time to begin is now.

The goal isn’t to make parents feel behind. It’s to establish dental care, check your child’s current oral health and help your family move forward with good habits.

Helping Children Feel Comfortable at the Dentist

A child’s early experiences with dental care can influence how they feel about dental visits as they grow. That’s one reason a calm, patient approach matters.

Cedar Hills Dental Care focuses on comfortable, non-judgmental, patient-centered care for children and adults. We want children to become familiar with the dental office, ask questions as they get older and learn that taking care of their teeth is a normal part of staying healthy.

Children’s Dental Care Near Beaverton

Families don’t necessarily need separate dental offices for every member of the household. Cedar Hills Dental Care provides family dental care for both children and adults, making it possible for families to build a long-term relationship with one dental practice.

Christine Chin, DMD earned her D.M.D. from OHSU in 1989 and has more than 35 years of dental experience. Cedar Hills Dental Care has cared for more than 10,000 smiles since 1986.

If you’re looking for a dentist for your child near Beaverton, Cedar Hills or the surrounding Portland area, we’re happy to answer your questions and help your child get started with dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age should a child first see a dentist?

A child’s first dental visit should generally occur when the first tooth appears or no later than the child’s first birthday.

What if my child doesn’t have many teeth by age one?

The first visit is about more than the number of teeth. It gives the dentist an opportunity to examine your child’s developing mouth and gives parents guidance about home care, fluoride, diet and cavity prevention.

Can my child see the same dentist I see?

Many family dental practices care for both children and adults. Cedar Hills Dental Care provides dental care for children and adults, allowing families to receive care in the same practice.

Recommended Reading for Parents

Children’s Dentistry at Cedar Hills Dental Care →

Learn more about dental care for children and how Cedar Hills Dental Care helps families care for growing smiles.

Fluoride Treatment: Helping Protect Teeth from Cavities →

Learn how fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect teeth from decay.

Dental Exams & Professional Cleanings →

See what regular dental exams and professional cleanings can include as your child grows.

How to Brush and Floss Correctly →

Review everyday brushing and flossing basics for building healthy oral-care habits at home.