As a family dentist serving the National City community, one of the most common questions we hear is: "When should I bring my child in for their first visit?" Establishing a positive relationship with the dentist early on is the best gift you can give your child for a lifetime of good oral health.
At Crown Dental Group, we provide gentle, friendly care for patients of all ages, specializing in creating comfortable and educational experiences for our youngest patients.
The Rule of Thumb: Age One, or First Tooth
Dental experts recommend scheduling your child's first dental visit when their first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday.
What Happens at the First Visit?
The goal of the first visit is not complex procedures. It's about assessment, education, and comfort:
A "Happy Visit": We introduce your child to the environment in a fun, non-threatening way. They might just sit on your lap for a quick look.
Assessment: The dentist examines the baby teeth, looks for early signs of decay ("baby bottle tooth decay"), and assesses gum health and jaw development.
Education for Parents: We review proper cleaning techniques, discuss nutrition, and offer advice on pacifier use and thumb-sucking habits.
Essential Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Smile
1. Brush as Soon as Teeth Appear
Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) on a soft-bristled brush twice a day. As your child grows (around age three), you can increase the amount to a pea-sized dot.
2. Prevent Cavities with Dental Sealants
Once the permanent molars erupt (around age six), we recommend dental sealants. These are thin, protective plastic coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to fill in the grooves where food and bacteria can hide.
3. Plan for Sports Protection
If your child plays contact sports, a custom-fitted sports mouthguard is essential. It protects against broken teeth, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage far better than boil-and-bite versions.
By starting early, you help prevent anxiety and ensure your child learns that the dentist is a friendly, helpful place.
Crown Dental Group is currently accepting new young patients! Call us today to schedule your child's first positive dental experience.
