From their first tooth and teething milestones to discussing the Tooth Fairy, your child’s smile goes through a lot as it grows. As a parent, you may have questions about what to expect along the way. Whether it’s welcoming another tooth or saying goodbye to the ones that made their little grin your absolute favorite, here is a complete guide to baby teeth.
What You Should Know About Baby Teeth
Although they may be small, your child’s baby teeth play a big role in their daily life and long-term oral health. They may be temporary, but for years they let your little one eat comfortably, speak clearly, and show off the adorable grin you love.
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months old, and they keep coming in until they reach the age 3. Of course, this varies among children, but most will have all 20 teeth by this time. It’s not until they turn 6, on average, that they will begin losing their baby teeth so that adult ones can erupt – a process that normally continues until they turn 12.
Keeping their baby teeth healthy helps ensure their permanent teeth erupt successfully.
How Can You Take Proper Care of Your Child’s Baby Teeth?
You may be thinking, “Baby teeth fall out anyway, so why does it matter if I take care of them?” Well, there are a few reasons to keep in mind. Regular brushing and flossing from an early age help your child build healthy hygiene habits they will carry as they grow. Also, losing baby teeth too early increases the risk of dental drift, which makes it harder for permanent teeth to erupt.
To keep their smile healthy during this time, make sure that you:
- Keep their six-month dental checkups and cleanings with their pediatric dentist. This makes it easier to catch problems early and reduces the chance of more extensive restorative treatment later.
- Make sure you bring them in for their first dental visit before their first birthday. It’s best if they see a dentist as soon as their first baby tooth erupts.
- Start cleaning your child’s gums during infancy with a clean, damp cloth. This promotes a healthy environment for teeth to erupt. Once one does, use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste and a finger brush to keep it clean.
- While teething, give your child soothing objects to ease the discomfort. This can include a clean, cool washcloth, chilled food, or safe teething toys.
This level of attention and care will keep your child’s baby teeth in place and cavity-free until they’re ready to fall out on their own. If you have questions about their growing smile or need help navigating these early years, their pediatric dentist is always available.
About the Author
Dr. Layne Benzley is a board-certified pediatric dentist who earned his dental degree from the University of Iowa. He provides top-tier dental care for young patients and works closely with parents to build healthy habits. If you’re unsure what to expect when your child’s baby teeth start coming in or falling out, contact us at (303) 660-5373 to schedule an appointment.