The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child go to the dentist by age 1 or within six months after the first tooth erupts. Primary teeth typically begin growing in around 6 months of age.

A child needs a check-up every six months is recommended in order to prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, if your child is at high risk for developing cavities, a three month check-up may be recommended:

• Infant oral health exams, which include risk assessment for caries in mother and child.
• Preventive dental care including cleaning and fluoride treatments, as well as nutrition and diet recommendations.
• Habit counseling (for example, pacifier use and thumb sucking).
• Early assessment and treatment for straightening teeth and correcting an improper bite (orthodontics).
• Repair of tooth cavities or defects with fillings or crowns and sometimes baby root canal treatment (pulpotomy).
• Diagnosis of oral conditions .