[BraydensMama]

I'm pretty confused about when I should be taking Brayden to see a dentist. I got a letter in the mail from Medicaid saying he should be seen within in a month of his first birthday, but I asked my dentist and he said he doesn't see them until they are two or three, unless there is a problem (and then I need to find a pediatric one). So, I'm just wondering if I need to be calling around to find one that sees him? Is anyone else even thinking about this yet? Moms with older kids, when did your LO start seeing a dentist?

Alright now I read something online that said he should have his first dentist (pediatric) by his first birthday, but that it should have been closer to when he got his first tooth in. Well, oops, that was six months ago. I really don't know what I'm supposed to do now.

[SusieQ2]

My dentist told me they should be seen around their first birthday. Part of the reason they start doing it early is to get them used to it. Considering that Ben has 9 teeth I will probably make sure he goes right after his birthday.

[~Paula~]

I've always heard around 2, I just think it's a little silly to do it earlier.

[MDS0307]

Mikaela first went when she was 2. I dont think they need to go sooner unless there is a problem. I'll probably wait until Dylan is around 18mo-2 to take him.

[SusieQ2]

From the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Q. When should my child first see a dentist?

A: "First visit by first birthday" sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between six and twelve months of age. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future.

Q. Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?

A: The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (also know as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Your child risks severe decay from using a bottle during naps or at night or when they nurse continuously from the breast.

The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily, learn to speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.[/b]

http://www.aapd.org/publications/brochures/babycare.asp


I figure if they have teeth why would you not take them to the dentist?

[:::Dan!elle:::]

My dentist doesn't see them until they are 3, unless there is a problem. So I have to drive 80 miles to take them to a pediatric dentist. They want to see Evan around a year.

[SusieQ2]

This thread reminded me to schedule an appointment. I called to day and did it. He goes June 3, the day after his birthday.

[acupofjoe]

i was told when they got there first tooth..rj hasnt gone yet though and she has four and the fith one is coming in. i should probley call and scedual one huh

[*Angel*]

I will have to call my dentist and see when they start to see babies, hey maybe I will do that now. And make her 1 year DR appt too. Thanks!!

[ashtree06]

Wow for some reason I was thinking it would be around 2 or 3! Lorelei isnt going to be happy about this, lol! I guess I'll call and schedule it after her 1st birthday.