When Should My Child First See a Dentist? A Gilbert Pediatric Dentist Explains Why Timing Matters

When Is the Right Time for a Child’s First Dental Visit?

Many parents in Gilbert and the East Valley are surprised to learn that the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children see a dentist by their first birthday—or within six months of their first tooth appearing.

Yet it’s common for families to wait until age 3 or later, often because:

·       “They’re just baby teeth”

·       “My child isn’t in pain”

·       “They won’t cooperate anyway”

Unfortunately, waiting can allow small issues to become big ones—often without obvious warning signs.

What Happens at a First Pediatric Dental Visit?

A first visit at a pediatric dentist is not about treatment. It’s about prevention, education, and comfort.

At The Tooth Shop in Gilbert, a first visit typically includes:

·       A gentle exam of emerging teeth and gums

·       Evaluation of jaw growth and bite development

·       Screening for early childhood cavities

·       Parent education on brushing, fluoride, and nutrition

·       Guidance on habits like thumb sucking, pacifiers, and bottle use

Visits are intentionally short, positive, and sensory-aware—especially for infants and toddlers.

Why Waiting Too Long Can Cause Problems

Delaying a child’s first dental visit increases the risk of:

·       Cavities forming unnoticed in baby teeth

·       Tooth infections that appear suddenly and cause pain

·       Emergency dental visits that could have been prevented

·       Fear or anxiety from a first visit that involves treatment instead of fun

Many pediatric dental emergencies we see could have been avoided with earlier routine care.

Do Babies and Toddlers Really Need a Pediatric Dentist?

Yes. Pediatric dentists receive specialized training in:

·       Infant and toddler oral development

·       Child behavior and dental anxiety

·       Sensory-sensitive and special-needs care

·       Early orthodontic and airway evaluation

A pediatric dentist isn’t just a “kids version” of a general dentist—they’re trained specifically to care for growing mouths.

What Parents Can Do at Home Before the First Visit

Before your child ever sits in a dental chair, you can help by:

·       Brushing twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste (rice-grain size under age 3)

·       Avoiding juice or milk in bottles or sippy cups at bedtime

·       Scheduling dental visits early—before problems arise

Serving Gilbert & the East Valley

The Tooth Shop proudly serves families throughout Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and Queen Creek, offering pediatric-only care in a calm, welcoming environment designed for kids.

Bottom line:The best time to see a pediatric dentist is before there’s a problem. Early visits mean healthier teeth, fewer procedures, and more confident kids.

Schedule Online for your child’s first dental visit

Call Now if you have questions about infant or toddler dental care