Parents often ask, “At what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly?” It’s a common and important question. Early visits help prevent future dental issues and set the stage for lifelong oral health. If you’re wondering about children’s dental treatments and when to begin, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down in a clear, simple way.
If you need to make a dental appointment for your kiddo, trust the team at Dental Care of Lombard. Dr. Glud and her compassionate team are here to make every trip to the dentist as positive and stress-free as possible. So, contact our children’s dentist in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700 to keep your child’s smile healthy as they grow!
The Right Age for That First Dental Visit
So, at what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) says that children should visit a dentist by the time they turn one or within six months of their first tooth erupting. This may sound early, but those first baby teeth are important!
Early visits allow your Dr. Glud to spot problems before they grow worse. Plus, starting early helps kids get used to the dental chair, tools, and dental team, which builds trust and reduces fear over time.
Dr. Glud can also guide you on how to care for your little one’s tiny teeth, including tips on brushing, fluoride use, and bottle habits.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Many parents assume baby teeth aren’t important because they eventually fall out. However, baby teeth play a big role in your child’s development. They help with chewing, speech, and holding space for adult teeth.
So when you ask, “At what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly?” remember that preserving baby teeth is essential. Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain and infections, which may affect permanent teeth.
Regular visits for children’s dental treatments allow dentists to monitor development, treat cavities early, and keep your child’s smile healthy.
The Benefits of Starting Dental Visits Early
When considering at what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly, think about the long-term benefits. Starting early leads to:
- Fewer cavities
- Less dental anxiety
- Better brushing and flossing habits
- Lower dental costs over time
Kids who grow up visiting the dentist regularly tend to maintain those habits as adults. Early visits make dental care a normal part of life, not something to fear.
What Happens During a Child’s First Dental Visit?
If you’re still asking at what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly, you might also be wondering what to expect at the first visit. Good news: It’s usually short and gentle.
Dr. Glud will check your child’s teeth and gums, discuss fluoride, and look for signs of decay or mouth problems. She will also teach you how to care for your child’s teeth at home.
You might also talk about children’s dental treatments such as sealants or fluoride varnishes that can help prevent cavities.
How Often Should Children Visit the Dentist?
Once your child has their first visit, you should continue scheduling regular dental checkups every six months. This is true whether they have just a few teeth or a full set.
Regular visits help catch issues early. They also keep your child’s mouth clean and healthy with professional cleanings, exams, and children’s dental treatments when needed.
This brings us back to the core question: At what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly? Starting at age one and returning every six months sets a solid foundation for oral health.
Common Children’s Dental Treatments
You may hear Dr. Glud recommend certain children’s dental treatments. These aren’t just for kids with problems – they’re also preventive. Here are some common ones:
- Fluoride varnish: Strengthens enamel and prevents decay.
- Dental sealants: Protect chewing surfaces from cavities.
- Space maintainers: Keep room for permanent teeth if a baby tooth falls out early.
Our children’s dentist in Lombard, IL, can help you decide which treatments are right for your child’s age and needs. That’s another reason why knowing at what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly is key.
Tips for Making Dental Visits Fun
Still feeling nervous about that first appointment? Here’s how to help your child enjoy the dentist:
- Start reading books or watching videos about dental visits.
- Use a play toothbrush and let your child “brush” a toy’s teeth.
- Visit the office beforehand for a friendly meet-and-greet.
- Stay positive – kids pick up on adult anxiety!
Knowing at what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly helps parents prepare. The earlier you start, the more normal the experience will feel.
What If My Child Is Older and Hasn’t Been Yet?
If your child is past the age of one and hasn’t been to a dentist yet, don’t worry. The best time to start is now. Dr. Glud is used to seeing kids of all ages for the first time.
Bring up any concerns about children’s dental treatments, tooth brushing struggles, or eating habits. Even if you missed that ideal “first birthday” window, it’s not too late to build healthy habits.
Ask yourself again: At what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly? The answer is early, but anytime is better than never.
How Oral Health Affects Overall Health
Dental health isn’t just about teeth. Poor oral health in kids can lead to problems like:
- Pain that affects sleep and focus
- Difficulty eating and speaking
- Infections that spread
- Missed school days
By asking at what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly, you’re actually taking a big step toward protecting your child’s overall health.
A healthy mouth supports a healthy body. It also supports confidence and a willingness to smile, laugh, and talk without pain.
Your Role as a Parent
Parents are the first line of defense in protecting their child’s smile. That means:
- Cleaning their gums regularly, even before teeth appear
- Brushing twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing when two teeth touch
- Choosing water over juice
- Scheduling that first dental visit around age one
You’re not just asking at what age children should start visiting the dentist regularly – you’re laying the foundation for a lifetime of good habits.
Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit at Dental Care of Lombard Today!
So, at what age should children start visiting the dentist regularly? The answer is simple: by age one or within six months of the first tooth making an appearance. After that, keep up with visits every six months.
The sooner you begin, the better your child’s chances of keeping a healthy, confident smile for life. So, if you’re ready to schedule your child’s first appointment, call Dr. Glud at (630) 629-5700 or click here to request a visit to Dental Care of Lombard now!
