When Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Baby teeth usually start to come in around six months of age, but it’s perfectly normal for a child’s first tooth to appear anytime between three and nine months. We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental exam when their first tooth emerges or by the time they are 12-18 months old. Early dental visits are key to promoting good oral health and habits!
How Do I Brush My Child’s Baby Teeth?
Caring for your child’s baby teeth varies depending on their stage of oral development. Even before teeth appear, it’s important to take care of the gums.
- During teething, use a cold washcloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the gums and any emerging teeth twice a day.
- Once a few teeth have come in, continue brushing twice daily, using a small amount of toothpaste. Children’s fluoride toothpaste is recommended, but a training toothpaste can also be used.
- From 12-18 months, parents or guardians should continue brushing their child’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Between four and six years of age, children can begin brushing with supervision and parental assistance as needed.
- Around six years old, children may develop the skills to brush independently. However, parents should continue to supervise until proper technique is mastered.
Establishing a consistent routine and teaching your child proper brushing techniques will help them maintain healthy dental habits from early childhood into adulthood.
What Should I Do If My Child’s Permanent Tooth Falls Out?
If a baby tooth is knocked out, it’s generally not a concern. However, if an adult tooth is knocked out, it’s a dental emergency that requires immediate action. Contact your pediatric dentist right away, stay calm, locate the tooth, and bring it with you to the dentist. Placing the tooth in milk can help preserve it.
What Should I Do If My Child Has a Toothache?
A toothache in a child may be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relief, proper brushing, flossing, or rinsing with warm salt water. Parents should check for visible issues like cavities. If the toothache persists for more than 24 hours, contact your pediatric dentist to address the problem.
What Should I Do If My Child Is Afraid of the Dentist?
It’s common for children to feel anxious about visiting the dentist. Choosing a pediatric dentist who is great with children and promoting healthy eating and hygiene habits are important steps. Be a positive role model by managing any dental fears you may have, avoiding negative language, and using positive reinforcement. Getting your child familiar with the dentist’s chair early on can also help ease their nerves.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Braces?
One advantage of regular visits to a pediatric dentist is their expertise in oral development, including the early identification of the need for braces or other cosmetic procedures. Pediatric dentists can either provide orthodontic care in-house or refer you to trusted specialists. They are also trained to clean teeth with braces and offer advice on maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment.
What Are Sealants and Cavities for Children?
Sealants are a special coating applied to the back teeth, usually molars, to prevent cavities. This coating helps protect the tooth enamel from bacteria, which can cause cavities if left unchecked. Good brushing habits are essential to prevent cavities, and your pediatric dentist can provide more information on sealants and cavity prevention to ensure your child receives the best possible dental care.