How Often Should Your Child See a Dentist?

Sometimes it can be hard to tell how much dental care a child needs. Parents usually have lots of different questions, such as when their child should first visit the dentist, at what age their child should start flossing, and how often to schedule regular dental checkups.

Your Child's First Dental 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. It is important to see a dentist within the first year of their lives in order to discuss oral hygiene practices, examine the mouth (gums, teeth, and their alignment) and to discuss overall oral health. The best approach to keep in mind when discussing dental care for children is a preventative approach. In other words, it is better to visit the dentist before any problems develop, not after.

What Kids Should Expect During Their Dental Appointment

On your child’s first visit to our office, the dentist will ask for a full health history and perform a brief examination of the teeth and jaw structure. On subsequent visits, if your child’s health status has changed, make sure to inform the dentist during your visit.

• Your child will have their teeth cleaned.
• The dentist will perform a complete dental exam of teeth, gums and mouth.
• Ocassionally your child's exam will also consist of x-rays.

Your Child Needs Regular Dental Care

In general, kids should visit the dentist at least once every 6 months. This allows for regular dental care to be performed by the dentist, including a dental exam, cleaning, fluoride treatment and x-ray. This can also prevent cavities and other dental problems. Your dentist may schedule additional visits for children who are particularly susceptible to tooth decay or who show early signs of orthodontic problems. Taking your kids to the dentist at an early age for regular checkups will establish good dental habits for them to follow in the future as well.