Why Kids Should See the Dentist by Age One

Many parents are surprised to learn that the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday—even if they only have a few teeth.

At Varni Dental in San Jose, we specialize in gentle, age-appropriate dental care that helps kids build positive habits from the very beginning. If you’ve been wondering when to take your child to the dentist, here’s why age one is the right time to start.

1. Baby Teeth Matter More Than You Think

Baby teeth aren’t “just temporary.” They play a crucial role in your child’s development by:

• Helping with chewing and speech
• Holding space for adult teeth
• Supporting jaw and facial growth

Early loss of baby teeth from decay can lead to misalignment, long-term bite problems, and the need for orthodontic treatment later.

Our kids' dentistry services focus on preserving those early teeth and educating families about healthy routines.

2. It Helps Prevent Cavities Early

Cavities can form as soon as teeth erupt. Early childhood caries (baby bottle tooth decay) is one of the most common chronic conditions in young children.

During your baby’s first visit, we’ll:

• Check for signs of decay
• Assess gum and jaw development
• Offer guidance on brushing, diet, and habits like thumb sucking

We also recommend fluoride treatments for added protection when appropriate. Learn more: The Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings

3. It Builds a Lifetime of Healthy Habits

Starting early helps your child:

• Become familiar with the dental office
• Develop trust with the dentist and team
• Learn that dental care is a normal, positive experience

At Varni Dental, we make dental visits fun and non-threatening with friendly staff, gentle care, and a kid-friendly environment. See how we support families in our blog: Kids Dentistry: Making Early Visits Easy

4. It Gives Parents Peace of Mind

As a parent, you probably have questions like:

• How do I clean my baby’s teeth?
• When should I stop using a pacifier?
• What foods are best for healthy teeth?

We take time during each visit to educate parents, answer concerns, and provide tools for better home care, because prevention starts at home.

Explore more helpful advice in: Dental Sedation for Children: What You Should Know

5. It Sets the Stage for Ongoing Preventive Care

Establishing a dental home by age one makes it easier to track your child’s growth and catch small issues before they turn into big ones. Our team follows your child’s development every six months, ensuring:

• Timely eruption of permanent teeth
• Monitoring of bite alignment and oral habits
• Consistent cleanings to prevent decay

Preventive care is the foundation of lifelong oral health, and it starts early at Varni Dental.

Gentle Pediatric Dental Care in San Jose

At Varni Dental, we provide pediatric dental care with compassion, education, and expertise. Whether it’s your child’s first dental visit or their fifth, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

• Friendly, experienced care for babies, toddlers, and teens
• Focus on prevention, comfort, and family education
• Convenient location on E. Tasman Drive in San Jose

Call or book online to schedule your child’s first dental visit today. We’ll help them smile confidently for years to come.