We waited until my son was closer to two, mostly because I was anxious about him freaking out (or maybe me freaking out?). It turned out ok, but honestly, I'm not convinced starting earlier would've made that first visit any less stressful...
The recommendation is usually around the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth popping up. It's less about making that first visit stress-free (because let's face it, toddlers are unpredictable...) and more about getting them comfortable with the environment early on. I've noticed kids who start earlier tend to adapt quicker over time, even if the initial visit isn't exactly smooth sailing. But honestly, every kid is different—sounds like you did just fine either way.
Interesting points all around, but honestly, waiting until the first tooth or first birthday might even be a bit late. I've seen parents bring their little ones in earlier—around 6 months old—even before teeth appear, just to chat about gum care and teething strategies. Sure, it sounds super early, but these visits can help parents feel more prepared and confident. Plus, babies get used to the dentist's office way before toddlerhood tantrums kick in...which is always a bonus.
"babies get used to the dentist's office way before toddlerhood tantrums kick in...which is always a bonus."
That's a really good point about getting them comfortable early—I hadn't thought about it from that angle. Still, I'm curious if dentists generally agree on this timing or if it varies a lot depending on who you ask. When I took my daughter at around 10 months, our dentist seemed surprised we came in before her first tooth appeared. Has anyone else experienced mixed advice from their dentist about timing?
When I took my daughter at around 10 months, our dentist seemed surprised we came in before her first tooth appeared. Has anyone else experienced mixed advice from their dentist about timing?
I get the logic behind starting early, but honestly, before the first tooth seems a bit premature. My dentist recommended waiting until at least one tooth had erupted, just so there's something concrete to check on. I mean, getting comfortable is great, but babies change so fast—wouldn't they forget the experience anyway? I'd probably wait until there's actually something dental-related to look at...but that's just me.
