At what age should I schedule my toddlers first dentist appointment?

Question

I have a daughter who is about to turn two next month and I wonder if I should go ahead and make her first appointment or wait another year or so. I want to get her pointed in the right direction with oral hygeine as soon as is neccessary.

Answer 1

If she has any teeth, then yes, go right ahead and make the appointment.  

Answer 2

Age 3 is what the Dental Association recommends, they really don't see before then unless its an emergency. also.. GOOD LUCK.... I could'nt get mine to stay in the chair. I would start with books and videos about the dentist so they are not afraid of the tools, Dr or office

Answer 3

Yes, but I tend to error on the side of caution.  I've heard as early as when the first tooth erupts per the American Academy of Pediatrics.  Most modern dentists will say either 1 yr or 2 yr birthday.  However, many parents wait until 4 or 5 (which I don't recommend)  I think now would be an excellent time and kudos to you for being on the ball.  They won't get flouride treatments or anything like that.  It is really just a look over in the child's mouth and to get them accustomed to the dentist.  Depending on the size of your town, there may be a "pediatric dentist" or two.  My town is about 100,000 population wise and we have one.  My daughter goes there and it is completely geared toward kids.  Her dentist wears a puppy mask, etc...So check your yellow pages if you want to go that route.

Answer 4

The recommended time is his first birthday to check whether the child been in a good routine of cleaning his teeth as to maintain oral hygiene.

Answer 5

My son is 2 and sees the dentist every 6 months(no flouride treatments for him).

Answer 6

I just asked my dentist this question.  He said, the best thing to do is have my son come in with me and watch (familiarize him with the dentist and take all the unknown out of it).  If he looks willing, then the dentist would take a look at him then...if he isn't ready yet, then wait and try again.  

Answer 7

The first dentist appointment was supposed to be when your daughter got her first tooth. So go ahead and schedule her.

Answer 8

Now is probably a good time. I took mine to a pediatric dentist when they were about 2. At that age they don't do x-rays or proper cleaning. Where I go the child sits on your knee facing you, the dentist sits knee to knee with you and then the child tips back into their lap. That way you are still holding them while they get checked. The dentist will discuss proper brushing and answer any questions you have. Once they are 3 they have x-rays and sit in a chair by themselves and get their teeth cleaned.

Both of my children had been to the dentist with me before they went by themselves and I think that helped. Ask your dentist for a pediatric recommendation.

Answer 9

The answers vary. I can tell you that my first dental appointment was when I was 3. Why? Because what child - realistically - is going to sit in a dental chair at age 1? Age 2? It's possible. But no later than age 3.

Let me put it to you this way, has your child sat still for a haircut yet? If so, then maybe the dental experience will be easy. If not, then she may not be ready for the dentist just yet.