More children than ever are struggling with preventable dental issues, with a 2017 study showing that over 530 million kids worldwide are affected by cavities in their baby teeth.
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent this? Regular visits to the pediatric dentist in Chesapeake, VA. But how many times a year should your child go? And when should those visits start?
Too often, and it feels like another chore on the calendar. Too little, and cavities and dental surprises can sneak up on you. Finding the right schedule is key not just for healthy teeth today, but for building lifelong habits tomorrow.
Why Every Checkup Counts
Dental visits are health check-ins for your child’s smile. Regular appointments help catch cavities early, track how teeth and jaws are growing, and spot issues like misaligned bites before they become bigger problems.
Kids can also learn proper brushing and flossing techniques directly from the experts, turning daily oral care from “ugh, do I have to?” to something they can enjoy and do right.
When to Schedule Visits: Age by Age
- Infants (0–1 year): First tooth? First visit. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends booking that first appointment by their first birthday. Early visits help you learn how to clean tiny teeth and get your little one comfortable with the dentist.
- Toddlers (1–3 years): Visits every six months keep cavities in check and make the office feel familiar. Gentle guidance and a little praise go a long way at this stage.
- Preschoolers (3–5 years): Regular checkups continue. Fluoride treatments, cavity prevention, and small lessons in brushing technique keep your child’s smile strong.
- School-age Kids (6–12 years): Permanent teeth start coming in, and sealants can protect molars from decay. Dentists also check for bite issues or early orthodontic needs.
- Teens (13–18 years): Checkups focus on reinforcing good hygiene, monitoring wisdom teeth, and keeping orthodontic treatment on track if needed.
When Your Child Might Need Extra Checkups
Some kids need to visit the dentist more often than the standard twice-a-year schedule. For children with a history of cavities, orthodontic appliances, medical conditions that affect oral health, or diets high in sugar, checkups every three to four months may be best.
The right pediatric dentist will customize the plan and recommend the right number of visits based on your child’s specific needs.
Making Dental Visits Fun and Stress-Free
Nobody likes dragging a reluctant child into the dentist’s chair, but it doesn’t have to be stressful:
- Start early so your child knows the office is a safe, friendly place
- Use positive language and skip the threats
- Let them bring a favorite toy or blanket
- Explain what the dentist will do in kid-friendly terms
- Celebrate their bravery afterward with a small reward, like extra playtime or choosing the family movie
A little encouragement goes a long way toward building lifelong positive dental habits.
Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy with Our Pediatric Dentist in Chesapeake, VA
Want your child to feel calm, safe, and even a little excited about their dental visits? Book an appointment at Advanced Sedation Dentistry, where our team creates a relaxed, kid-friendly environment designed to keep smiles healthy and comfortable.
Schedule today and make dental care something your child looks forward to!