How Old Do You Have to Be When You First Go to the Dentist?

Hi,
I believe it's 4yrs and older. At least thats what my son's dr. told me..

N.

I use a pediatric dentist, and he recommends a first visit at 18 months, so the baby can get used to being around the dental equipment and having the dentist in his/her mouth.

I waited until my daughter was 21/2 and it is a big regret pf mine. At her first visit the dentist found a cavity at the gum-line between and behind her two front teeth. She needed a double root canal and had caps on her front teeth. Aside from costing a small fortune.. it was a traumatic experience for both of us. She had to be sedated (drugged with vallium) and strapped into a papoose.. it was horrible. So I'd start early.. even before teeth come in.

My little boy didn't get ANY teeth until he was 17 months! He's now 2 1/2 and STILL doesn't have all his teeth!
I don't think you have to worry about going to the dentist for a few more months. My Pediatrician says I should make my 1st appointment for my son now.

My dentist recommends 2 yrs old. I have three children and my third turns two in October so she will be going for the first time!

V.:

We usually see children when they are about 2 years of age. Mostly the children are about 2 1/2 to 3 years of age. We take the first visit slow and get them use to the chair and the equipment. "Mr Thirsty and show them the mouth mirror then the doctor will count the teeth. We don't want to make them afraid. 15 months is a little young. Make sure that you are brushing his/her teeth with a soft bristle brush and use some fluoride free paste. Get him use to brushing his teeth in the morning and at night. Also make sure you speak with his pediatrican about fluroride. He should be having a little. You don't want to much otherwise he will get fluorosis (which is white spots that will appear on his permanent teeth not baby teeth). If you have any questions please feel free to ask. I work in a dental office and have been in the field for 17 years!
S.