When Should Kids Start Seeing the Dentist?

Kids should start visiting the dentist from an early age to get them used to the experience of dental visits and to get professional perspective as teeth are starting to develop.


Alligator Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in the Idaho Falls area specializes in pediatric dentistry. Our doctors and professional staff are positioned to provide age-appropriate dental care.

Importance of Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentists have specific training for pediatric dentistry. This education involves attention to skills to help reduce children’s fears and training to support young people in getting the care they need. For example, through proper pediatric dental care, young patients are supported in the minimization of dental phobia. Behavioral techniques are available to get children used to the idea of going to the dentist regularly, which may be important in reducing their fear.

Treatment to help prevent cavities and decay is a main benefit of pediatric dentistry. For example, pediatric dentists can provide dental sealants that protect molars against decay, a common occurrence in young children. 

Pediatric dentistry can also aid in the Identification of oral deformities. Catching such conditions early can inform future dental and/or orthodontic interventions.

When Should Kids Start Dental Visits?

You should start taking your child to the dental office early. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests taking your child to the dentist by the time they are one year old. Taking part in dental visits from an early age may reduce the risk of dental phobias significantly. 

Ideally, you want your child to grow up with the perception that they have been going to the dentist for as long as they can remember. The more normalized you can make dental visits, the easier the experience of attending dental appointments may become, even if invasive treatments are required, like tooth extractions or root canals. 

Pediatric Dentistry in the Idaho Falls Area

The dentists at Alligator Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics specialize in providing children with dental treatment. We are located in the Idaho Falls area, with a location designed for pediatric care. Take a 360-degree tour of our office to see how we’re set up for kids. 

We provide care for infants through adolescents, with treatments available for young children up through high-school-aged teens.

Why Alligator Pediatric Dentistry

There are a number of reasons to choose Alligator for pediatric dentistry. The following are details on what our professional team provides:

Professional pediatric dental and orthodontic services

Our biggest draw is our professional pediatric dental and orthodontic services. Our team gives children personalized care, providing each child with assistance to maintain oral health long-term. 

For example, we can arrange “first dental visits.” These encounters help your child get used to the idea of going to the dentist and using our services. 

Additionally, we offer infant dental exams and oral hygiene sessions. These involve checking for issues and making recommendations. 

Sedation dentistry is another option for more invasive procedures. This approach is for calming children, especially if they have extreme anxiety, low pain tolerance, or strong gag reflexes. 

Positive approach to dentistry

Another reason to choose Alligator Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics is our positive approach. We believe that working effectively with kids is a skill, which is why we think specialist dental practices like ours are best for children who may be wary of the dentist. We believe in creating trust and bonds with kids so they can grow up feeling confident about dental office visits. 

Behavior management, communication techniques

Part of our approach also includes behavior management and communication techniques. These include: 

  • Purposeful language: Explaining procedures in child-friendly language and in ways to avoid inciting feelings of distress

  • Tone: Maintaining a calm and reassuring tone throughout consultations

  • Ask-tell-ask approach: Using an ask-tell-ask method to help reduce anxiety: inquire about feelings, describe a procedure, and then ask for understanding

  • Positive reinforcement: Using positive reinforcement to support desirable behavior (such as being brave when going to the dentist)

  • Behavior modeling: Modeling behavior that is suitable for a dental clinic

  • Desensitization techniques: Using various desensitization techniques, like introducing tools and implements gradually to help them seem less scary

We also adopt general best-practice communication strategies. Our dentists use non-verbal facial expressions and body language to convey a sense of comfort and well-being. Empathy is a critical component of what we do, taking your child’s emotions seriously. 

Parent presence and communication

We encourage parent involvement. Including you in conversations can reassure your child and make them more willing to undergo procedures. 

Parental involvement is critical for establishing positive dental attitudes. If children see that parents support them going to the dentist, they are more likely to internalize that desire and be okay with going on their own in the future. 

Also, we can guide parents on healthy oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing their children’s teeth regularly as part of following consistent care routines.

Positive environment

Finally, we offer a positive environment. We have colorful waiting rooms, toys, and even an alligator mascot. 

Professional pediatric dentists

We have four pediatric dentists on staff. Each is trained in providing children's dental care and is committed to providing quality and compassionate pediatric dental treatment.

Pediatric Dentist Near You

A local provider of pediatric dental and orthodontic services, Alligator is located in Eastern Idaho to support the dental health of young children, adolescents, and those in their teenage years.

Contact Alligator Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics to schedule an appointment for professional and personalized pediatric dental care.