For many parents, a baby’s first tooth is a milestone that comes with excitement and plenty of questions, too. One of the most common is “When should my child see the dentist for the first time?”
At Ladd Family Dental in Greenville, we believe the answer is simple: by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early dental visits are more than just a chance to peek at tiny teeth. They’re the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles and comfortable experiences at the dentist.
The Importance of the First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that babies have their first dental checkup by age one. During this visit, Dr. Parke Ladd takes a gentle, preventative approach to care, helping parents understand how to keep their baby’s mouth healthy while addressing any early signs of concern.
This visit isn’t just about checking teeth. It’s also about setting the stage for positive oral habits and a relationship-based approach to care from the very beginning. A few benefits of seeing a dentist before age one include:
- Early detection of potential issues like enamel defects or oral developmental concerns
- Assessing nutritional habits and their effect on developing teeth
- Guidance on teething, thumb-sucking, and nursing or bottle-feeding habits
- Creating familiarity with the dental office to reduce future anxiety
What to Expect During Your Infant's Visit
The first checkup is designed to be low-stress and educational for both child and parent. Dr. Ladd and his team foster a relaxed environment where your child can feel safe and supported.
The goal is to make this first appointment as comfortable and informative as possible, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of comfortable dental experiences. A typical infant dental exam may include:
- A gentle examination of the gums, jaw, and any erupted teeth
- Discussion about fluoride needs and home care routines
- Personalized tips on brushing techniques and oral hygiene
- An open Q&A to address parental concerns
How Early Visits Support Lifelong Health
Starting dental care early isn't just about the short term. It directly impacts your child’s long-term oral health, too. Toddlers and young children who visit the dentist early tend to experience fewer cavities, reduced dental anxiety, and improved oral hygiene habits as they grow. These early visits also help build consistent routines guided by professional support you can trust.
Just as each child is unique, so is our approach. At Ladd Family Dental, we believe in personalized, relationship-based care, where families become familiar faces. Dr. Ladd’s kind, approachable style makes it easy for both children and parents to feel at ease, even during the very first visit.
Affordable Access to Children’s Dental Care
We understand that not every family has dental insurance, which is why we offer the Ladd Loyalty Program. This is an in-house membership that’s designed to help make quality care accessible to everyone. Preventive visits like infant dental checkups are an essential part of your child’s health, and we’re committed to removing financial barriers that might get in the way of those early smiles.
Plus, our practice is proud to be part of the Greenville community, where Dr. Ladd’s family has built a legacy of dentistry rooted in compassion and service. We treat every child like one of our own and strive to build real relationships that extend beyond the exam room.
Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit in Greenville
If your little one has their first tooth or their first birthday is on the horizon, now is the perfect time to schedule that all-important first visit. At Ladd Family Dental in Greenville, SC, we’re honored to be part of your child’s health journey. To schedule an appointment or learn more, call us at (864) 233-1533. We look forward to welcoming your family and helping your child smile with confidence from the very beginning.