Taking your toddler to the dentist 

Many parents wonder when their child should see a dentist for the first time. Leading dental and pediatric organizations—including state and national health experts—recommend that children have their first dental visit and establish a “dental home” by their first birthday. 

Tooth decay is surprisingly common in young children, affecting nearly one in four children ages 2 to 5. The good news is that tooth decay is preventable. By seeing children early, dentists and dental hygienists can work with families to help keep little smiles healthy—before problems start. 

A young child’s first dental visit is simple, gentle, and focused on prevention. We check that teeth are developing properly and look for any early signs of dental concerns. Just as importantly, we spend time talking with parents and caregivers about how everyday habits—like diet—affect oral health. While most people know that candy can cause cavities, foods such as crackers and potato chips can also increase the risk. 

We also offer guidance on bottles and sippy cups, demonstrate how to brush your child’s teeth, and explain how much fluoride toothpaste to use—just a tiny smear. Parents can ask questions about fluoride, drinking water, and overall oral health. When appropriate, we apply fluoride varnish to help protect your child’s teeth. 

Our goal is to make this first visit a positive and comfortable experience for both children and parents. Most children can receive all their care right here at North Shore Community Health. If a child needs specialized dental care, we will help connect families with a pediatric dental specialist through a written referral. 

Starting dental visits early helps build healthy habits that last a lifetime. We look forward to being part of your child’s health care team.

David Leader, DMD, MPH
Director of Dental Practice and Operations