Teething

Routine Checkup

All children need early and regular dental care. Early checks by the dentist make it easier to treat problems early, especially if your child has a high risk for having tooth decay. The Canadian Dental Association encourages parents to have their baby's teeth looked at by a dentist within 6 months of the baby's first tooth erupting or by 1 year of age. Children should have regular cleanings and examinations when all of their teeth have come in, usually around ages 2 or 3.²

Many parents dread their child's first visit to the dentist's office. If you have concerns about how your child will behave, talk to your dentist before scheduling the visit. Your dentist may allow your child to come in once or twice before being examined. These types of visits help prepare your child and often make him or her more comfortable with the dentist, other staff, and the office environment. You may also try finding books about visiting the dentist that are designed to help a young child prepare for the first dental examination.

Regular dental visits are important to teach your child good dental care and to help prevent cavities and other problems. The examination also helps to identify and treat problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious. For more information on routine checkups and tooth care, see the topics Basic Dental Care and Tooth Decay.

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH Ralph Poore	Last Updated: September 6, 2007
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
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