When Should My Child First See a Dentist?

Your child’s first tooth is an exciting milestone — it’s a tiny sign of all the big things to come. But it also raises a common question for parents: When should my child first see a dentist?

At Blue Plum Dental in Johnson City, TN, Dr. David J. Miranda and Dr. Mead Lyons love helping families start their children’s dental care off on the right foot. The answer might surprise you — and the sooner you start, the better your child’s smile will thrive.

The Ideal Time for a First Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Even if that first visit feels early, it’s the perfect time to establish good habits and catch any potential issues while they’re small.

Baby teeth may not last forever, but they play an important role in speech development, chewing, and holding space for adult teeth. Early visits let your child’s dentist track how those teeth and jaws are growing — and help make the dental office feel like a familiar, friendly place.

What Happens During the First Appointment?

A first dental visit is short, simple, and focused on comfort. Our team takes a gentle look at your child’s teeth and gums, checks for early signs of decay or growth concerns, and discusses how to care for those tiny teeth at home.

Parents also get the chance to ask all their questions — from thumb-sucking and fluoride to how much toothpaste to use (hint: a rice-sized amount is plenty for babies and toddlers).

But, our goal isn’t just a quick exam; it’s building a foundation for lifelong oral health in a relaxed, positive environment.

Making Dental Visits a Positive Experience

Kids who start early tend to feel more confident and comfortable at the dentist as they grow. To help with that, we recommend scheduling morning appointments (when little ones are happiest), bringing along their favorite stuffed animal, and making the visit feel like a special outing.

At Blue Plum Dental, we use a calm, friendly approach to help children feel safe and cared for — no pressure, no rush, and plenty of smiles along the way.

Children’s Dentistry at Blue Plum Dental in Johnson City

Choosing a dental home early gives your child a strong start for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Whether you’re preparing for your baby’s first appointment or scheduling a checkup for your growing toddler, our team at Blue Plum Dental is here to help every step of the way.

Call our Johnson City office today to schedule your child’s first dental visit — we’d love to welcome your family and make that first trip a happy memory.

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Categorised in: Dental Tips, Family Dental Care