When should one take a toddler to the dentist?

About 3: We like to see little ones about 3 years old. We'll try to get them to open and clean their teeth. We won't push the situation and usually x-rays are not taken. We just want the kids to be comfortable going to the office and seeing the doctor. Then as they get older we add things like xrays etc.

Depends on dentist: In my state dental review starting at 6m is covered by their medicaid. Some dentists set up their offices to cater to kids & focus on early education & preventative rx. I generally recommend a parent start at a year or later if the primary teeth have not yet erupted. I have plenty of local dentists who are happy to see them at a year. (but some won't).

1st tooth: When 1st tooth erupts, but no later than age 1. Consider seeing a pediatric dental specialist who can evaluate cranio-facial growth and development, dentitional development, diet, hygiene, fluorides, sealants, and so many other things. If you see a pediatrician, see a pedodontist by age 1. By the way, 1st orthodontic ck-up age 7.