Baby teeth, also known as primary or deciduous, are far more than just temporary fixtures in your child’s mouth. These initial teeth are vital for proper development, as they assist in chewing, speaking, and maintaining space in the jaw for the permanent teeth that will emerge later.
Typically, baby teeth start to emerge around the age of 6 months. By age 3, most children will have a complete set of 20 primary teeth. Although these teeth will eventually be replaced by adult teeth, premature loss of a baby tooth can result in misalignment or crowding when adult teeth come in.
Permanent teeth begin to appear around age six, and most children will have all their adult teeth by their teenage years. However, the timeline for tooth eruption can vary from child to child, so your little one might experience these changes a bit earlier or later.
Teething can be uncomfortable for babies, often starting around the six-month mark. Symptoms may include irritability, increased drooling, and a tendency to chew or bite on complex objects. Swollen gums and disrupted sleep or eating patterns are also common. To ease your baby’s discomfort:
The FDA advises against using benzocaine-based teething gels (such as Anbesol®, Orajel®, etc.) due to potential severe reactions in children. More information is available on the FDA website: www.fda.gov.
It’s recommended that your child visits the dentist within six months of their first tooth erupting or no later than their first birthday. This initial visit, often called a “well-baby checkup” for their teeth, helps establish a positive relationship with the dentist and sets the stage for healthy dental habits. Early visits are crucial as baby teeth can start to decay soon after they appear. A comfortable first experience can help prevent anxiety about future dental visits.
Sugar is prevalent in many liquids and foods babies consume, including breast milk, formula, and fruit juices. The residual sugar can become acid that damages tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Here are ways to prevent tooth decay:
Breastfeeding:
Bottles, Sipping, and Snacking:
Pacifiers:
Like adults, children need regular brushing and flossing to maintain dental health. Brush your child’s teeth twice daily for two minutes each time. Clean between their teeth daily with floss or a floss aid.
For children under three years old.
For children three to six years old.
Start flossing your child’s teeth when they have two teeth that touch. The ADA suggests cleaning between teeth daily until they can handle it themselves, usually around age 10 or 11.
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water sources and helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more decay resistant. Ensure your child consumes fluoridated water and uses fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride treatments from multiple sources provide extra protection against cavities.
Thumb sucking, finger sucking, and pacifier use are natural in infants but can affect dental development if continued long-term. Most children stop these habits by ages 2 to 4. If your child continues to suck their thumb or use a pacifier, consult their dentist or pediatrician for guidance on how to address this habit.
Understanding the importance of baby teeth and taking proactive steps in dental care help lay a strong foundation for your child’s oral health.
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Email: contact@rockkidsdental.com
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