What age is best to start my child's Routine Dental Care?

As a parent, you want to do everything you can to create a happy, healthy life for your child. You work to get them a good education. You provide them with healthy meals. You help them learn social skills. And you probably maintain a schedule for their doctor visits.

As you’re establishing their health care schedule, don’t forget to include routine dental care. Visiting the dentist early in life helps your son or daughter learn good oral care habits, plus it helps them feel comfortable in the dentist’s chair.

Here at Modern Day Dental in Santa Clara, California, Andrew Day, DDS, and our team strive to offer relaxing, educational pediatric dental exams. And if you’re wondering when to schedule your child’s first visit, you’ve come to the right place.

When to start routine dental care

Both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommend that you take your child to the dentist before their first birthday.

Generally, you should make that first appointment as soon as you see your son or daughter’s first tooth pop up through their gums. It might seem silly to get dental care for just one or two teeth. But as soon as your child has teeth, they’re at risk for tooth decay.

In fact, in the same publication in which they recommend age 1 dental visits, the AAPD points out that tooth decay is the most common childhood disease — by a wide margin. And if your little one develops a cavity before they can explain the discomfort they’re feeling, they could needlessly suffer. With a trip to our office before or by their first birthday, you get Dr. Day and our team involved. We’re here to make sure their growing mouth stays healthy and pain-free.

Regular visits for lifelong oral health

Just like any other health care visit, a dentist’s appointment isn’t a one-and-done to-do for your child. Start them in a cadence of twice-yearly dentist appointments now. When you get them into this rhythm, you help them build the habit of regularly getting dental exams. This helps catch potential oral health problems early, when they’re easiest to treat.

Plus, regular dental visits now can help your child feel relaxed at the dentist. Dr. Day and our team prioritize your child’s comfort. We always take a gentle, friendly approach with the aim of helping them feel positively about their regular dental checkups.

Together with you, we can set your son or daughter up for a lifetime of good oral health.

If you’re ready to schedule your child’s routine dental care appointment, call our office today.