Baby Teeth

The first set of teeth a child gets are called their primary or baby teeth. The first tooth, which is usually a bottom front tooth, erupts at around 6 months of age. Most children have all 20 primary teeth by the time they are three years old. Do not worry if your child does not have their first tooth by 6 months, each child follows their own developmental schedule and some do not have their first tooth until closer to their first birthday. The chart below illustrates what the primary teeth typically look like and when they should erupt and shed/be lost.

Teething, or when the primary teeth begin to erupt through the gums, can be very challenging. Your baby will have sore and tender gums making them uncomfortable and cranky. Giving your child a clean teething ring can alleviate some of their discomfort, but do not dip it in any sugar or syrup substance. This can cause cavities to begin the moment the tooth breaks through the gums. It is NOT normal for a child to have a fever during teething, if your child has a high or persistent fever while teething contact your pediatrician.

Once the first tooth is in the mouth, or by your baby’s first birthday, they should see the dentist. Bring your child to your appointment with you, this allows them to become familiar with the dental office and staff. Here at Fairlawn Family Dental we strive to make your child’s dental visits as easy as possible for everyone involved. Sometimes at their first visit, we may only have them sit in the chair and simply look at their teeth. Slowly introducing the various procedures during a dental cleaning allows the child to be comfortable at the dentist and not create any fear or discomfort at such an early age.

As soon as the first tooth erupts into the mouth, the habit of twice daily toothbrushing should begin. A parent or guardian should brush the child’s teeth until the child is able to properly and effectively brush their own teeth. But always allow the child to practice brushing after their teeth are brushed for them and encourage proper brushing technique. For a child aged 0-3 years use only a smear of toothpaste on the toothbrush no larger than a grain of rice. Children age 3-6 years old use amount of toothpaste equivalent to a bee-bee or small pea. (see image below) If your child’s primary teeth touch each other, their teeth also need to be flossed as well as brushed. Starting this healthy routine at an early age shows your child the importance of caring for their teeth and gets them in the routine of caring for their teeth for themselves.

Call Fairlawn Family Dental today to schedule an appointment for your child to have their teeth checked! 540-639-6688