When Should a Child First See the Dentist? Why Before Age 1 Is Key
At Light Dental Pediatrics, we’re committed to helping your child build healthy dental habits and positive dental experiences from the very beginning. According to the Stanford Children’s Health and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first dental visit by age one—and we’re here to make that visit both educational and fun.
Why Early Dental Visits Matter
Cavities (also called dental caries disease), are the most common chronic disease in children— a whopping five times more common than asthma, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Without early dental care, untreated cavities can lead to pain, infections, missed school days, and even emergency room visits.
That’s why establishing a routine schedule of preventive dental visits is so important. These early visits help protect your child from tooth decay, reduce dental anxiety, and support healthy development. At Light Dental Pediatrics, we make each visit simple, comprehensive, and fun—just like our name suggests!
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit
During your child’s first visit to Light Dental Pediatrics in Featherland Forest, our team focuses on four essential areas of early oral health:
1. Oral Hygiene for Kids
Tips and tricks to help keep your child’s mouth healthy. Teaching good brushing and flossing habits from a young age helps prevent cavities and builds a strong foundation for lifelong oral health. Establishing routines early make dental care easier and more effective as your child grows.
2. Dental Growth and Development
As your child grows, you can expect baby teeth to begin erupting around 6 months of age and start falling out around age 6, making room for permanent teeth. Our team will guide you through every stage of dental development, including airway-friendly strategies to support proper breathing and growth. We’ll also address non-nutritive oral habits, such as thumb sucking and pacifier use, and offer personalized tips to help your child gently transition away from these behaviors for optimal oral health.
3. Diet
What your child eats plays a key role in their oral and overall health. Our team will provide personalized dietary recommendations to help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues, setting the foundation for a healthy smile.
4. Dental Trauma and Emergencies
Accidents happen—if your child experiences a tooth or mouth injury, it’s important to act quickly. Our team will provide you with the essential knowledge and steps to take during dental emergencies, so you feel confident and prepared to protect your child’s smile.
Comprehensive Oral Exam and Personalized Guidance
At your visit, our board-certified pediatric dentist will perform a thorough oral examination, checking for signs of oral disease, tethered oral tissues, and other important developmental concerns. You’ll receive expert recommendations, and if needed, we’ll connect you with additional resources to support your child’s oral health journey.
Supporting Families, One Smile at a Time
At Light Dental Pediatrics, we’re not just focused on teeth—we’re here to help your family build lifelong oral health habits in a welcoming, child-centered environment. Whether you’re scheduling your baby’s first dental checkup or continuing care for your growing child, we look forward to partnering with you.
Schedule your chid’s first visit with Light Dental Pediatrics today—and let’s build a bright, healthy smile together!