The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) recommends that parents schedule dental appointments for their children twice a year, beginning approximately six months after the first tooth appears.

These two important yearly visits allow the pediatric dentist to track new developments in the child’s mouth, assess any changes in the health of their teeth and gums, and provide ongoing guidance to parents on effective oral care strategies.

The pediatric dentist may recommend more frequent visits for children who are particularly prone to tooth decay or who show early indicators of orthodontic problems.

What is the purpose of dental checkups?

Firstly, the pediatric dentist aims to create a comfortable and familiar "dental home" for the child. This ensures that if a dental emergency arises, parents have a trusted place to take their child for treatment.

Secondly, the pediatric dentist maintains detailed records of the child’s evolving dental health and jaw development. Painful dental conditions generally don't appear suddenly. By understanding the child’s dental history, the pediatric dentist can better anticipate potential future issues and intervene proactively before they become problems.

Thirdly, these visits provide a valuable opportunity for the pediatric dentist to educate both parents and children. Sometimes, the dentist may recommend introducing measures to enhance tooth health, such as sealants, fluoride supplements, or xylitol. Other times, the dentist may advise parents to modify the child’s diet or oral habits, such as reducing sugar intake, removing an oral piercing, or transitioning from sippy cups to regular drinking glasses.

Finally, dental X-rays are often the only way to identify tiny cavities in primary (baby) teeth. Even if the child isn't experiencing any pain, these small cavities can rapidly progress into larger ones, leading to tooth decay and eventually, childhood gum disease if left untreated. Dental X-rays are only taken when the pediatric dentist suspects cavities or orthodontic irregularities.

Are checkups necessary if my child has healthy teeth?

A child’s dental health can change quite rapidly. Even if their teeth were deemed healthy just six months prior, changes in diet or oral habits (like thumb sucking) can quickly make them vulnerable to decay or misalignment.

In addition to visual examinations, the pediatric dentist provides thorough dental cleanings during each visit. These cleanings remove plaque and debris that can accumulate between teeth and in other hard-to-reach areas. While a good homecare routine is essential, these professional cleanings offer an extra layer of protection to keep smiles healthy.

The pediatric dentist also monitors the child’s fluoride levels during routine visits. Often, a topical fluoride gel or varnish is applied to the teeth after cleaning. Topical fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel by remineralizing it and preventing mineral loss from acid attacks. Some children may also be given take-home fluoride supplements, especially if they live in areas where fluoride isn't routinely added to the community water supply.

Finally, the pediatric dentist may apply dental sealants to the chewing surfaces of the child’s back teeth (molars). This protective liquid plastic substance is brushed onto the molars to seal out harmful debris, bacteria, and acid.

If you have any questions or concerns about when to schedule your child’s dental checkups, please contact your pediatric dentist.