We see patients from birth until it is time to graduate to a general dentist. That timing can be different for each child.  We will personalize our recommendations for each patient.

When should I bring my child to see the dentist?

While we often see children much earlier, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should visit the dentist by their 1st birthday or within no more than 6 months after the eruption of their first tooth. Beginning dental care at an early age allows guidance for caring for your child's teeth and opportunities to address preventive issues that are important for healthy teeth and a pleasing smile. Early visits also help establish a positive relationship between the dentist and your child. Starting visits by age 1 can also save your family time and money; studies have shown that compared to kids that started dental care at age 1, those that started later ended up with more expenses and more required treatment.

After meeting you and your child, we will use their behavior (and yours!) to determine how quickly we introduce different tools and verbiage.  When appropriate, we will build up to comprehensive preventive care visits which may include examination, cleaning, fluoride treatments, and appropriate radiographs.

 The purpose of this age 1 dental visit is to educate parents on proper oral hygiene, nutrition, and oral habits. We will assess growth and dental development of your baby and offer recommendations that will help lead to a lifetime of beautiful smiles. You’ll have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you desire, because we all know that babies don’t come with a handbook!

Early preventive care gives children the best chance at being cavity free for life.