Your Child’s First Dental Visit—and Every One After: A Parent’s Guide from Infancy to Independence

By Dr. Dean Carlston

As a family dentist with decades of experience, I’ve had the joy of watching kids grow up in my chair—from their first baby tooth to their first college dorm. Although I now focus primarily on adult and older child dentistry, my commitment to education remains strong. I don’t currently see very young children in my practice, but I continue to guide families with trusted referrals, sound science, and the insights I’ve gained from treating generations of patients.

This guide is designed for parents, grandparents, and teachers—those who want to support a child’s oral health journey in a meaningful way. It includes age-specific advice, common challenges, and practical tips to help every child grow up with a strong, healthy, confident smile.

1. Why Baby Teeth Matter (Birth to Age 2)

Though I no longer treat infants...

2. Toddler Teeth and Teaching Trust (Ages 2–4)

This is a stage filled with discovery...

3. Pre-K and Early School Years (Ages 5–7)

Kids in this range are learning routines...

4. Middle Childhood (Ages 8–10)

This is a wonderful window where kids become capable...

5. Adolescents and Tweens (Ages 11–13)

Teenagers are independent—but not always consistent...

6. When to Transition to an Adult Dentist

I typically start seeing patients as young as 9...