When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?

People of all ages need dental care, but new parents may wonder when their children should begin to see a dentist regularly. Fortunately, our office has experience in pediatric dentistry, and we recommend that children see us for dental treatments at a young age. Experienced Buffalo dentist Douglas Hamill provides insight into when is the right age to take your child to the dentist in the following educational video.

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At What Age Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?

Our office recommends that children have their first visit to a dentist around the age of three. Behavior is a key factor; if a child will sit still at the age of two, he or she can see a dentist then. We also recommend that parents informally examine their children’s mouths and look for potential issues such as broken teeth or dark spots. If any dental problems appear, parents should contact a pediatric dentist immediately.

The timeline for baby teeth to fall out fluctuates based on the individual. The front teeth (the incisors) generally begin to fall out when a child reaches the age of five or six years. The back teeth, though, may fall out as early as the age of nine or as late as the onset puberty, around the same time as the second molars grow in.

Dental sealants can be particularly effective in terms of preventing cavities. These are effectively seals that can be placed over the permanent teeth when they emerge. Dental sealants are recommended for children between the ages of six and 14. They last for several years, and the sealants can help to prevent cavities getting in the grooves of the teeth.

If you have questions about whether it’s time to bring your child to the dentist for the first time, please contact our office. We provide free second opinions and have new patient specials available.

Our practice has served the Buffalo area for almost 17 years, and we are committed to helping all our patients to maintain and improve their oral health. If you have questions about your oral health, check out our comprehensive guide to dental care or watch our educational dental videos to learn more.

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2 thoughts on “When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?

  1. John Best says:

    Hey Dr. Doug, nice article. The idea of dental sealants to prevent cavities is an interesting idea, especially as we all grow older, and would like to keep our own teeth for as long as possible.

    Thanks,

    John Best

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