Because healthy smiles start young — and stay strong for life.
When it comes to your child’s health, regular check-ups are just as important for their teeth as they are for their overall wellness. But how often should your child see the dentist?
The general recommendation is that children should have a dental exam every 6 months — starting within 6 months of their first tooth appearing, or by age 1 (whichever comes first).
Let’s explore why regular dental exams are important for kids, what to expect, and how often they should visit based on their age and oral health.
📅 Dental Exam Frequency for Children (by Age)
👶 Infants & Toddlers (0–3 years)
- First dental visit: By age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth
- Follow-up visits: Every 6 months, or more frequently if there are early concerns (like decay, crowding, or bottle-related issues)
🧒 Preschool & Elementary-Age Children (4–12 years)
- Regular dental exams: Every 6 months
Check-ups monitor:
- Cavity development
- Baby teeth shedding and adult teeth eruption
- Bite and jaw growth
- Oral hygiene habits
🧑🎓 Teenagers (13–18 years)
- Dental exams: Every 6 months, or as recommended
Focus includes:
- Wisdom teeth development
- Orthodontic monitoring
- Diet, oral hygiene, and sports-related protection
🦷 Why Regular Dental Exams Matter for Kids
✅ 1. Preventing Cavities Early
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions in children. Routine exams help catch cavities early — or prevent them altogether with sealants and fluoride.
✅ 2. Building Comfort and Confidence
Frequent visits help kids feel relaxed and familiar with the dental environment, reducing fear or anxiety later on.
✅ 3. Monitoring Growth and Development
From baby teeth to braces, your dentist keeps an eye on your child’s changing bite, spacing, and jaw alignment.
✅ 4. Instilling Healthy Habits for Life
Dental teams can teach brushing and flossing techniques, talk about nutrition, and show kids that dental care is a normal part of self-care.
🧼 What Happens During a Child’s Dental Exam?
At each check-up, your dentist or hygienist will:
- Gently examine your child’s teeth, gums, and bite
- Clean their teeth (removing plaque and tartar)
- Apply fluoride treatment if needed
- Offer tips on home care for kids and parents
- Take X-rays (when necessary) to monitor hidden issues
The goal is to make the visit fun, friendly, and fear-free.
Final Thoughts
Routine dental exams every 6 months help ensure your child’s smile grows up healthy and strong. And just like adult care, early detection = easier treatment and less stress for everyone.
Is your child due for a check-up? Book their next visit with us today — we love caring for little smiles and helping families build great dental habits from the very beginning.