Are you also worried about your child’s first dental visit? Most Aussie parents who walk their kids into our dental clinic in Prospect feel unsure at first.
“Isn’t it too early?”
“What if they cry the whole time?”
“They barely have teeth!”
The worry is entirely normal. You’ve got work, daycare, meals, nap times, and now… teeth?
And the truth is, most dental practitioners in Australia agree: the earlier the dental visit, the better. Taking action early on can save them a lot of dental issues later.
So, at What Age Do Children Start Going to the Dentist?
The short answer is: when their first tooth erupts.
The first dental visit isn’t about deep cleaning or drilling. It’s a gentle look inside your child’s mouth. A chance to catch problems early and help your child feel comfortable with our pediatric dentist at Alpha Dental and Implant Centre.
Here’s what we look for during that first visit:
- How the teeth and gums are developing
- Signs of early tooth decay or plaque
- Whether oral hygiene routines are working
- Guidance on fluoride toothpaste, diet, and healthy snacks
That first visit helps your child form a positive connection with their dentist, before pain or fear kicks in.
What Age Do Children Start Going to the Dentist?
Most dentists will tell you: the first dental visit should happen before or by your child’s first birthday at the latest. Not after the first tooth loss. Here’s a simple table for guidance:
| Milestone | Dental Action |
| First tooth appears (6–10 months) | Book their first dental appointment |
| 12 months old | Must see a dentist by this age |
| 18–24 months | Begin regular dental check-ups |
| 3–4 years old | Introduce teeth cleaning by a dentist |
| 5+ years | Assess the child’s teeth, bite and adult teeth eruption |
The earlier the first dental check-up, the better your child will respond to future dental appointments.
They’ll feel comfortable with the clinic, the chair, the lights, the sound of the equipment, and most importantly, the dental staff.
What Happens During Your Child’s First Dental Visit?
If it’s done early enough, the first service won’t be a full cleaning or polish; it’s more of an introduction.
A gentle look inside the child’s mouth.
A quick check for tooth decay, gum health, and how the teeth are coming through.
Your dentist may also:
- Show you how to brush teeth properly
- Suggest when to start using fluoride toothpaste
- Talk about habits like thumb-sucking and dummy use
- Help you pick healthy snacks that protect oral health
- Introduce you to the child’s dental benefits schedule.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay from a Young Age
Tooth decay is one of the leading disease burdens among children in Australia. It’s more prevalent than asthma.
The good news is that most of the causes are preventable. But prevention starts early and must become part of a daily routine.
Here’s how to protect your child’s teeth from day one:
- Brush twice a day with a soft, age-appropriate toothbrush: Start brushing as soon as that first tooth appears (usually around 6 months). Use just a smear of water with no toothpaste until a dentist gives the green light. By age 18 months, most children can switch to fluoride toothpaste. Use a pea-sized amount and supervise brushing until they’re at least 8.
- Use fluoride, but not too much: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay, but using it too early or in large amounts can cause fluorosis. Follow your child’s dentist or GP’s advice.
- Limit exposure to sugary foods and drinks: Avoid using juice bottles as pacifiers, especially before naps or bedtime. The sugar clings to baby teeth and feeds cavity-causing bacteria. Stick to whole fruits instead of fruit juices, and aim for no added sugar before age 2.
- Encourage water between meals: Water helps rinse food particles and neutralise acids. Tap water in over 90% of parts of Australia is fluoridated, which is another good thing for oral health.
- Offer tooth-friendly snacks: Limit sticky or sugary snacks like lollies and fruit straps. Instead, offer cheese, plain yoghurt, apple slices, or carrot sticks. These support oral hygiene and naturally help clean the teeth during chewing.
- Make dental visits regular: Book regular dental check-ups every 6 to 12 months. Don’t wait until there’s a problem. Every visit allows early monitoring of your child’s mouth, gum health, and potential issues like tooth decay or misaligned adult teeth.
If your child hasn’t visited the dentist in the last 6-12 months, it’s time to book an appointment at a dental clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my 2-year-old go to the dentist?
Yes, age two is a key checkpoint. At this stage, many children have most of their baby teeth, and early signs of decay often start to appear. A dental visit can help prevent tooth decay, especially if the child uses bottles or snacks frequently.
When should a child get their first teeth cleaning?
Most children receive their first professional teeth cleaning between ages 2.5 and 3, depending on their comfort and oral development. However, cleaning may start earlier if plaque build-up or staining is present. The dentist will also show parents how to clean baby teeth effectively using soft brushes and fluoride toothpaste.
How do I prepare my child for a dental visit?
Begin with simple steps: discuss the dentist in a positive light, watch dental-themed storybooks or videos, and engage in role-playing with a toothbrush and a toy. You can also visit the clinic beforehand for a quick look around, so it feels less intimidating. Avoid words like “pain” or “needle”; instead, focus on phrases like “counting teeth” or “cleaning sugar bugs.”
Protect Your Child’s Smile at Alpha Dental and Implant Centre
For over 10 years, Alpha Dental and Implant Centre has been helping families across Prospect and Adelaide. Our team includes dentists experienced with young children and their specific oral health needs.
We also bulk-bill eligible patients under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule. And our focus is on prevention, not panic. Whether it’s your child’s first visit or their fifth, we’re here to help them feel safe and cared for. Book a dental appointment today or call (08) 8269 3311 or email info@adicentre.com.au.
