Rated 4.9 out of 5.0 based on 786 reviews
(228) 832-3231 Emergency Service Available Birdeye Reviews

When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?

April 2, 2019 | Blog

As a new parent, you’re told over and over about the importance of check-ups and regularly scheduled doctor appointments from the moment your child is born. Dental care is just as important to the overall health of your child – but determining the best time to take your child to a pediatric dentist isn’t as clear cut.

When should I make the first appointment?

The general rule of thumb for determining when your child should first visit a pediatric dentist is by the time he or she celebrates their first birthday. Although every child will have their own, unique dental timeline, the point of the first visit is to get your child comfortable in the dentist’s chair. At this time, your dentist will also educate you on your child’s teeth and what to expect for the future. There will also be a quick examination for any decay.

However, if your child is still on a bottle and hasn’t begun to snack/drink in the middle of the night, then you may decide to wait until year two before making their first appointment. After your first appointment, most pediatric dentists will recommend a routine 6-month check-up – unless there are any early issues that need correcting like lisps, mouth breathing and teeth grinding.

What to expect

As we said previously, expect a quick examination of your child’s mouth, as well as a rundown of how to care for their teeth in the upcoming years. Additionally, because the purpose of the visit is also to get your child comfortable with the dentist office, you might be asked to hold them in the chair and hold their mouth open during the exam.

It is not till year 3 that your child will have full dental appointment or exam. X-rays typically won’t be taken until your child is 5 years old and feels comfortable with the process and the entire dental office and staff.

Why Choose Us?

Gulf Coast Dental has been Gulfport's preferred, professional dental service since 1969.

Learn More
handshake icon
BBB Accredited Business
Gulf Coast Dental is fully accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
award medal and ribbon icon
Award Winning Service
Gulf Coast Dental has the highest quality services available for your Gulf Coast dental needs.
a pair of people from the shoulders up icon
Professional Staff
Gulf Coast Dental has been recognized for having distinguished and friendly staff members.
thumbs up icon
Hassle-Free
Gulf Coast Dental is committed to a positive, hassle-free experience in our clinic.

What Our Customers Are Saying

Extremely Understanding

Not a good dental patient but good experience. All were extremely understanding and calming and great block. Took 7 years to venture to a new dentist after losing ours and very happy and comfortable with the choice.

Deborah K.

Exceed Expectations

I absolutely love Gulf Coast Dental Care. Everyone is professional, friendly, skilled and helpful. Relaxed, timely, personal, outstanding. I’ve been a patient for years and they have never failed to exceed expectations. Love these folks.

David W.

Best Dentist Office on the Coast!

Best dentist office on the coast! The crew is always so nice and professional! If you want a pearly white smile I highly recommend you go see the great staff at Gulf Coast Dental Care!

Myles M.

Very Comfortable Experience

My first time visiting Gulf Coast Dental for a cleaning today. Check in was quick and seamless and Hong was a fabulous hygienist! Dr. Webb was very kind and professional. Very comfortable experience. 🙂

Blakeley R.

Highly Recommended

My husband was there this morning for his root canal. He’s very pleased of his experience. Parking was very accessible. Very friendly staff. We love Dr Webb and our Dental Hygienist(Hong)!Highly recommended

Fernanda B.

Fabulous Staff!

Fabulous staff! Drs, Hygienists, assistants, and front office. Everyone is wonderful. My son especially loves his hygienist! 😊

Jennifer K.

They Care About Your Experience

Dr Sutton and The Staff are cool,calm, and collected. They care about your experience and do a very good job putting you at ease. I’m very pleased.

Allen J.