When Should Your Child Have Their First Exam?

Posted August 25, 2026

When should you bring a child in for a routine dental exam? We want to see kids as young as age one, and with the right treatments, help them avoid the onset of tooth decay and infection. In today’s blog, Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX, talks about when kids should see us for a dental exam!

The Initial Dental Exam

The first visit to the dentist should happen around age one, once the first baby tooth has erupted. During this visit, we will offer a simple knee-to-knee lap exam to make sure teeth are erupting as they should. But starting at age two, kids should start seeing our team every six months. With a routine exam, we can follow the smile as it grows and changes, so we can catch issues that could lead to misalignment early, and also watch for common problems like tooth decay and even gingivitis. We then address these concerns before they cause pain or threaten tooth stability!

For kids, these visits also help prevent dental anxiety as they become accustomed to seeing the dentist. We can also help instill good oral hygiene habits, and they may be more likely to continue seeking care on their own as adults.

Checkups with Digital Technology

To make a diagnosis with precision and accuracy, we will use digital technology. Our digital x-rays peer beneath the gums and look at the tooth’s interior for signs of decay and infection, and to help plan treatment. We also have an intraoral camera, so we can take detailed images of the surfaces of your child’s teeth and gums for signs of decay and inflammation. These technologies mean we can obtain high-definition images quickly and comfortably, and offer care with better precision and comfort too.

Cleaning Little Smiles

Our team will also take time to clean the teeth during their exam visits. With a cleaning, we will use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick to gently and thoroughly remove all plaque and tartar from the smile. By doing so, we help limit the risk of bad breath, stained teeth, cavities, and even gum inflammation. We complete the procedure by polishing the teeth too!

Preventive Treatments

Our team could also offer unique preventive treatments to help fight cavities, such as fluoride applied directly to the teeth. We also have dental sealants, which can cover the rear teeth and help prevent decay for months or even years to come.

PDC Kids Provides Checkups and Cleanings for Kids

Our team wants to help children enjoy good oral health, and that starts with a preventive visit. To find out more about children’s checkups and cleanings, then call Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX, today at (214) 321-4880.