As a parent, you want the very best for your child’s health and happiness. From their first steps to their first words, every milestone matters. But what about their first dental visit? Many parents are unsure about when kids should start going to the dentist. The answer may surprise you—it is earlier than you might think.
The team at Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, your trusted pediatric dentist in Des Plaines, IL, believes that starting dental care early is the key to building lifelong healthy habits. In this guide, we will walk you through when to schedule your child’s first appointment, what to expect, and how early dental care benefits your child’s smile.
You may think children do not need dental visits until they have a full set of teeth, but baby teeth are just as important as permanent teeth. These early teeth help your child chew, speak, and hold space for adult teeth to come in properly. If baby teeth develop cavities or fall out too soon, it can cause problems for the permanent teeth later on.
Visiting our kids' dentist in Des Plaines, IL, at an early age also helps your child feel comfortable in a dental setting. Instead of being nervous when they are older, your child grows up seeing the dentist as a normal part of staying healthy.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in, whichever comes first. This may sound early, but it makes a big difference in preventing future dental issues.
At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we often see children as young as one year old. These early visits are simple and gentle. The dentist checks your child’s gums and teeth, talks with you about brushing and diet, and helps your little one get used to the dental chair in a fun and friendly way. We may also recommend preventive services such as fluoride treatment to strengthen teeth from the very beginning.
Parents often wonder what the first appointment will look like. A first visit is more about comfort and education than treatment. Here is what you can expect:
Our goal at Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry is to make sure both parents and children leave the office with smiles.
After the first visit, most children benefit from checkups every six months. Regular visits allow our pediatric dentist in Des Plaines, IL, to catch small problems before they become big ones. Cleanings, fluoride treatments, and checkups all help protect your child’s growing smile. Services like comprehensive dental exams and sealants help protect your child’s growing smile.
Some children may need extra care due to medical conditions, developmental delays, or sensory sensitivities. At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we understand how to make dental visits positive and comfortable for children with special needs. Our team takes the time to create a calm environment and uses gentle approaches to ensure every child feels safe and supported. You can read more about our specialized children’s dentistry services here.
Bringing your child to the dentist early provides many benefits:
Builds Comfort and Trust
Children who visit our kids dentist in Des Plaines, IL, from a young age see dental care as a natural part of life.
Prevents Cavities
The dentist can catch small cavities before they cause pain or require treatment, sometimes using tooth-colored fillings for gentle restorations.
Supports Healthy Habits
Parents learn the best ways to brush and care for little teeth, which makes daily routines easier.
Encourages Proper Development
Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth. Keeping them healthy helps permanent teeth grow in straight and strong.
Parents can make the first dental visit a positive experience by keeping things simple and encouraging. Here are some tips:
At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we love it when parents are involved in the process. Together, we make dental care something your child looks forward to.
Do baby teeth really matter if they fall out?
Yes. Baby teeth help your child eat, speak, and guide adult teeth into the right place. Taking care of them is very important.
What if my child is nervous about the dentist?
Our pediatric dentist in Des Plaines, IL, at Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry is specially trained to work with children. Our team uses a friendly and patient approach to make every child feel at ease.
How can I help prevent cavities at home?
Brush your child’s teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, encourage water instead of sugary drinks, and schedule regular visits to Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry.
My child has special needs. Can they still visit the dentist?
Absolutely. Our team is trained to provide care for children with special needs in a safe and supportive way.
Starting dental visits early is one of the best gifts you can give your child. By bringing your little one to Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, you set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Whether it is your child’s very first tooth or their first checkup before school, our caring team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Choosing a trusted kids dentist in Des Plaines, IL, means choosing peace of mind for you and gentle, effective care for your child. Schedule your child’s first visit today and watch them grow into a confident, happy patient who sees dental visits as a normal and positive part of life.
Get top-quality dental care in Des Plaines, IL—book an appointment
with our experienced dentists at Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry.
(224) 580-2007
