Children’s Dentist in Toledo, OH

Both medical and dental professionals agree that your child should see a dentist at the age of one year, or within six months after the eruption of their first tooth. Your child’s primary teeth begin growing at around the age of six months, on average, but this may vary from one child to another.

There are many reasons why it is important for your child’s overall health and their oral health and development for them to see a dentist sooner rather than waiting. A child’s primary teeth – commonly referred to as their ‘baby’ teeth – are very important in a child’s development. Some of the reasons that primary teeth are so important include:

• Ensuring that your child learns to chew properly while also ensuring that they maintain good nutrition;
• Primary teeth are involved in the development of speech;
• Primary teeth help to save space for permanent, or adult, teeth;
• Lastly, the promotion of a healthy smile helps with a child’s self-esteem, ensuring that they feel good about themselves and their appearance.

A visit to a kid-friendly dentist is important to your child’s health – both for the child themselves and for you as a parent. The reason is that it is important that both you and your child are aware of the proper techniques for flossing and brushing to ensure life-long oral health and hygiene habits. Remember, a child’s teeth are different from an adult’s, and the first dental visit is an excellent opportunity for parents to learn the best ways to care for their children’s teeth.

While your child may be too young to experience dental nerves if you take them around the time that their first tooth comes in. It is normal for many parents to choose to take their children for their dental visits when they are older (generally around age two). In case you do wait, it is possible your child will develop anxiety or nervousness when it comes to their first dental visit.

Here is some advice to get your child ready for their first dental visit:

• Have your child with you at your next check-up so that they can view you have your teeth cleaned and examined;
• There are many online resources to help you and your child learn more about dental health and visits, all of which are targeted toward children;
• Before you take your child in, play dentist and patient with your child, taking turns to examine each other’s teeth with a mirror or using your fingers to count each other’s teeth so that your child becomes familiar with what a dental exam will feel like;
• And lastly, timing is important, make certain that you plan your child’s dental visit with plenty of time and that your child is well-rested and relaxed before their visit to optimize their comfort.

Pediatric dentists are specially trained to help children feel comfortable and relaxed during dental visits, even if they experience anxiety. They use a variety of techniques to make the experience positive and stress-free.

One of the key methods is building trust. Pediatric dentists engage with children in a gentle, friendly manner, using simple language and explaining each step of the procedure in a way that’s easy to understand. This approach helps reduce fear by making the child feel more in control of the situation.

Distraction techniques are also commonly used. Dentists might offer headphones with music or videos, or provide toys or games to keep the child distracted while they work. This keeps the child’s mind focused on something other than the procedure.

For more anxious children, sedation options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may be recommended. This safe and mild sedative helps the child relax without putting them to sleep. In some cases, if a child has severe anxiety or requires extensive work, the dentist may recommend general anesthesia or conscious sedation.

Ultimately, pediatric dentists are dedicated to creating a positive experience for every child by tailoring their approach to meet the child’s individual needs, ensuring a lifetime of good dental health and positive dental visits.

It is recommended that children visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups, starting from their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. Regular dental visits are essential for monitoring the development of your child’s teeth, ensuring proper oral health, and preventing potential dental issues.


During these visits, the dentist will conduct a thorough examination, check for any early signs of cavities, gum disease, or alignment issues, and provide professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Regular checkups also give the dentist an opportunity to discuss your child’s oral hygiene habits, offer advice on brushing and flossing techniques, and address any concerns you may have regarding teething, thumb-sucking, or bottle use.

For children who are more prone to dental problems, such as those with a family history of cavities or orthodontic issues, the dentist may recommend more frequent visits. Additionally, some children may benefit from treatments like fluoride applications or dental sealants to protect their teeth from decay.

Visiting the dentist regularly not only helps prevent dental problems but also establishes a positive attitude towards oral care, making it easier for your child to develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

At Great Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Nadeem Khan specializes in pediatric dental care, offering a gentle and friendly approach to children’s dental needs in Toledo, OH. With over 25 years of experience, he ensures that each child receives personalized care in a comfortable, stress-free environment. From routine checkups to early preventive care, Dr. Khan focuses on fostering good oral hygiene habits from a young age.

As a family dentist, Dr. Khan understands the unique needs of young patients. He is dedicated to making their dental visits positive experiences that will set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Parents in Northwest Ohio trust Dr. Khan for his compassionate care and expertise in treating children’s dental needs.

For those looking for a dentist for the entire family, Dr. Nadeem Khan, DDS, at Great Smiles Family Dentistry can provide the friendly care and professional service that you need. Contact us for more information. We are conveniently located at 4646 Nantuckett Dr Suite D, Toledo, OH 43623. We serve patients from Toledo OH, Ottawa Hills OH, Sylvania OH, Holland OH, Rossford OH, Oregon OH, Maumee OH, Perrysburg OH, and surrounding areas.