Adapted from Dr. Brier’s article on the Allen Fairview Chamber news page.
As a parent, you’re constantly making choices to help your child grow up healthy and confident. One question that often comes up in our family dentistry practice in Lucas is: “When should I bring my child to the dentist for the first time?” The answer might surprise you, it’s probably earlier than you’d expect.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see a dentist by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth showing up, whichever comes first. It may seem early, but those tiny baby teeth play a big role. They’re essential for chewing, learning to speak, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Early visits also give parents a head start on preventing cavities and building good habits from day one.
So why start so soon? Cavities don’t wait. They can form as soon as teeth erupt, and unfortunately, tooth decay remains one of the most common health concerns in children. And when left untreated, it can lead to the need for treatments like dental crowns or root canal therapy. The good news? It’s very preventable. These early visits give us a chance to check for any early concerns, talk about nutrition, show you how to clean your child’s teeth, and sometimes apply a protective fluoride treatment.
But there’s another benefit that’s just as important: comfort. Kids who come in early usually grow up seeing the dental office as a normal, friendly place. That makes future visits easier and helps them avoid the fear or anxiety that sometimes comes with dental care later in life.
At Dental Care of Lucas, your child’s first appointment is designed to be easy and low-pressure. We’ll do a gentle exam, take a look at how the teeth are coming in, and talk with you about everything from brushing to thumb sucking. It’s also a great time for you to ask questions, whether it’s about teething, pacifiers, snacks, or anything else.
Bottom line? Don’t wait for a problem, or an emergency, to pop up. If your baby has a tooth, or a birthday, coming up, it’s time to plan that first visit. Starting early helps set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles, and we’re here to make that journey feel simple and reassuring every step of the way.
Need help scheduling your child’s first visit?
You can book online or give us a call anytime. We’d love to welcome your little one to our Lucas dental family.