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About Dental Care for Children

Regular professional cleanings and examinations are essential for maintaining excellent dental health as children grow and develop. Positive dental experiences beginning in childhood can help patients form more successful habits that last throughout their adult life. Your child’s first dental visit is an exciting time in their development.

Dentistry for Children FAQs

How often should my child see the dentist?

It is best practice for children to see the dentist once every 6 months for a cleaning and routine examination. These cleanings and exams are important because they allow your dentist to detect oral health complications early, or better yet, prevent them from forming at all.
At what age should a child have their first dentist appointment?

The general rule of thumb is that a child should first see a dentist after their first tooth appears, but before their first birthday. Most dentists recommend children's first appointment with the dentist be made when they are between 6 and 12 months old.
How should I brush my baby's teeth?

For infants, a toothbrush with a small head and extra soft bristles is preferred. Special toothbrushes specifically designed for babies can be purchased to help with attending to their oral hygiene. Parents should brush their infant's teeth at least once a day to eliminate plaque and prevent tooth decay.
What happens during a pediatric dental exam?
Pediatric dental exams consist mostly of checking for four common oral health complications experienced by children: cavities, Inflamed gums, signs of teeth grinding and tooth impaction. Speak with your dentist about what they are looking for when examining your child's mouth, as this will better equip you to recognize potential issues which may need medical intervention.
When should my child start using toothpaste?

Most of the time children under 3 should not use fluoride toothpaste. A soft brush and water will be sufficient for children under 3 years old. At age 3, brushing should be supervised by parents and can begin featuring a pea-sized drop of toothpaste. Make sure your child does not ingest any of the excess toothpaste.

More from the Canadian Dental Health Guide about Dental Care for Children

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Find pediatric dentists & children's dental care near you.

Service availability by province

Alberta

British Columbia

Ontario

Quebec

Nova Scotia

Manitoba

Saskatchewan

More from the Canadian Dental Health Guide about Dental Care for Children

When should I consider bringing my kids to the orthodontist?

Dentistry for the Entire Family: How Dental Services Differ by Age

Who's at risk for a dental emergency?

How Dental Services Differ by Age

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