Choosing a dentist for your child
When to go for the first time, whether you need a children’s specialist, what to ask when you call, and the programmes that help pay for it.
When to go for the first time
The Canadian Dental Association recommends a first visit within six months of your child’s first tooth coming in, or by their first birthday. The idea is to go before anything hurts. Canadian Dental Association
At that first visit the dentist looks at your child’s teeth and gums, shows you how to clean them at home, and checks how the teeth and bite are coming along. X-rays and fluoride are only suggested if your child needs them. After that, most children go every six months.
Pediatric dentist or family dentist?
A pediatric dentist is a dentist who went on to specialist training in children’s dentistry after dental school. Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
A family dentist can look after your child too, and the whole family can go to one place. Many parents start with a family dentist and see a specialist if their child is very anxious or needs more complex treatment. If you’re not sure, ask your dentist.
Some specialists and hospital clinics ask for a referral from your dentist or doctor, and some don’t, so ask when you call.
What to ask when you call
Help with the cost
The Canadian Dental Care Plan
Children under 18 can be covered if the family’s income is under $90,000 and they have no private dental insurance. Parents or guardians apply for them.
Healthy Smiles Ontario (ON)
Free check-ups, cleanings, fillings, x-rays, extractions and urgent care for children and teens 17 and under in lower-income families. Braces aren’t covered. Children whose family gets Ontario Works or ODSP are signed up automatically.
Healthy Kids (BC)
Up to $2,000 of basic dental care every two years for children under 19 in lower-income families (on MSP supplementary benefits, family income of $42,000 or less). Braces aren’t covered. Show your child’s BC Services Card at the clinic.
Alberta Child Health Benefit (AB)
Free dental care for children in lower-income families, including check-ups, cleanings, x-rays, fillings and extractions. It covers children up to 18, and 18- and 19-year-olds who live at home and are in high school.
Find a dentist for kids in your city
Children’s specialists, and family dentists that parents recommend.