When and How Often Should Kids Visit the Dentist?

Regular dental visits are one of the best ways to protect your child’s smile. From their very first tooth to their teenage years, checkups help catch problems early and teach good habits that last a lifetime.

We care for growing smiles in Frisco, McKinney, and Prosper, TX with gentle, kid-focused dental care.

When to Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth coming in. 

This early visit allows your dentist to check for proper development and catch early signs of tooth decay before they become painful or costly to treat.

At Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry, we make first visits fun and informative. Parents stay with their child during the appointment while we gently examine the teeth, gums, and bite and offer personalized tips for home care.

Staying on Track With Regular Checkups

Most children should visit the dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings. Twice-yearly visits allow your pediatric dentist to:

• Track how teeth and jaws are developing
• Remove plaque buildup before it causes cavities
• Apply fluoride or sealants to protect enamel
• Catch small problems early before they require more extensive treatment like fillings or extractions

Some kids who are more cavity-prone, have braces, or medical conditions affecting oral health may need to come in more often.

Why Regular Dental Visits Are Important

Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out, they play an important role in your child’s development. They help them chew, speak clearly, and hold space for permanent teeth. Skipping appointments can allow minor issues like small cavities or gum inflammation to progress into bigger problems.

Regular visits also build trust. Kids who see their dentist routinely tend to be more relaxed and confident during future visits, making dental care a normal part of life rather than something to fear.

What to Expect at Your Child’s Dental Visit

A typical checkup includes:

• Gentle cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
• Cavity check and fluoride treatment if needed
• X-rays (when appropriate) to monitor tooth development
• Discussion about brushing, diet, and oral habits like thumb sucking

Each visit ends with a progress review so parents know how their child’s smile is doing and what to focus on at home.

Keeping Teeth Healthy Between Visits

Daily habits matter just as much as dental visits. Keep your child’s teeth healthy with these daily habits:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste
• Floss once a day
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks
• Offer water instead of juice or soda
• Choose tooth-friendly foods such as cheese, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables
• Never put your child to sleep with a bottle, as it can cause early tooth decay

Consistent home care and regular checkups work together to prevent cavities and build a foundation for lifelong oral health.

Partner With Lonestar Kids’ Dentistry

Regular dental visits build confidence, prevent problems, and keep growing smiles on track. By starting early and staying consistent, you help your child develop habits that protect their teeth now and in the future.

To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Prosper, TX, call (469) 228-4402, request an appointment online, or visit us at 240 S. Preston Road, Suite 10 Prosper, TX 75078.

📍Other locations

Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry in Frisco, TX

Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry in McKinney, TX

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