When Should Your Child First See a Dentist?
Many parents are surprised to hear this: your child should see a dentist by their first birthday, or within six months after the first tooth comes in. That's what the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend.
It may seem early, but baby teeth can get cavities as soon as they show up. A quick early visit lets the dentist check things while they're still small and easy to handle.
What happens at the first visit
The visit is short. Your child can sit on your lap while the dentist looks at their teeth and gums. The dentist may put fluoride varnish on the teeth. It's a quick coating that helps protect against cavities. Then we'll show you how to brush your child's teeth and answer any questions you have.
Caring for baby teeth at home
Start early. Even before teeth come in, wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze.
Brush twice a day, morning and night, once teeth appear.
Under age 3, use only a smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. From ages 3 to 6, use a pea-sized amount.
Don't put your baby to bed with a bottle. It can lead to tooth decay.
Help with brushing. Kids usually need a parent's help until they're around 7 or 8 years old.
Coming in
We see kids and adults, and our team speaks English and Spanish. We take Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal) and most PPO plans. Call us at 323-296-9098 to book your child's first visit.
Primera Dental · 3150 E Imperial Hwy, B8-207 (Plaza Mexico), Lynwood, CA 90262
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 9am–6pm · Sat 9am–4pm
Contact Primera Dental
Do you have any questions or concerns about our dental services? Fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
¿Tiene preguntas o dudas sobre nuestros servicios dentales? Complete el formulario a continuación y nuestro equipo se pondrá en contacto con usted lo antes posible.
Please do not include sensitive medical or dental information in this form. For urgent dental concerns, please call our office directly at (323) 296-9098. | Por favor no incluya información médica o dental sensible en este formulario. Para asuntos urgentes, llámenos directamente al (323) 296-9098.