At what age should you take a child to the dentist?

You should take them in at around 3-4 years old for their first check up and cleaning. I work at a dentist and that is what we recommend.

I think the baby has enough teeth the dentist can check

I have cleaned the teeth of a 3 year old before that sat in the chair and was wonderful. It doesn't happen often but some kiddos are just ready. I usually encourage parents to bring kids for a first visit around age 5 unless you see a dark spot on a tooth that concerns you earlier. I ask them to bring the child with them on one of their visits to get a feel for the office and take a ride in the chair (happy visit). It's important that you talk about their going to the dentist in a positive way. Even if you hate it and are scared to death, there is no reason for them to be. Also...don't threaten to take them "to the dentist and have their teeth pulled" if they don't brush. Please help make it a good visit for all of us. Thanks....a hygienist.

My 20 month old has already had 3 cleanings. She's been going since she was 6 months old.

hello usually around 10yrs old best

The dentist my niece goes to wouldn't do anything until she turned 4 but you can take him in and get him used to going. All they will do is look at the teeth he has in and probably give him a sticker or something.

I have a two year old and I was told to wait until he is three, but now I'm hearing that i should have taken him when he was 1, so I don't know either. Ask your Pediatrician, I'm going to.

I took my son at three. We went to a dentist that specialized in childrens dentistry. It is worth it to go early and help children establish dental hygiene to avoid cavities.

It all depends on the dentist, and what he/she decides is appropriate. Definatley let your child be aware of dental hygine and the dental office. I will be very honest... some dentists aren't child friendly... only meaning they don't want to deal with a toddler when they usually see adults... you could see a pediodontist... a dentist especially for children if you want your child to be seen without a hassle. What I would first recommend is to take your small child with you when you get your dental work done (the best idea is to only have your child there if its a cleaning, if you are getting other work done you may need a needle and children are afraid of needles... I definatly would try not to let my child associate the dentist with needles untill they are old enough for other dental work, and even then I would try to avoid telling them about the shot). Be brave (for some patients this is hard) and show how easy going to the dentist can be. If you can, let them sit on your lap and watch... even ask your child to smile and show his/her teeth or see if the dentist can briefly look in his/her mouth. That way your child is used to the atmosphere and knows he/she is going to have to open their mouth and let some "stranger" look in. The more the child knows about the dentist the less strange it will be. Again some dentist don't like kids. Some even ask that you don't bring your child in with your appointment in case they get restless and in the way. Always call ahead and confirm with your dentist if it won't be a problem... sometimes they may want to schedule an extra 10 or 15 minutes so they won't get behind and other patients won't wait and they can allow that extra time to focus on your child. If you show consideration for your dentist and his/her schedule... they are more likely to show some for you. Toddlers very rarely acutally need cleanings or dental work, but it is a good idea to get them aclimated to the dental world.