THE FOUNDATION FOR A HEALTHY SMILE

Understanding Baby Teeth

Pediatric dentistry is the fancy term we use to describe “taking care of children’s teeth”. So, what do you need to know about taking care of your child's teeth? Let's start at the beginning. Baby teeth begin erupting between 6-12-months, and continue until your child is 2.5-3-years old. Throughout this period, their gums may feel tender and sore as a result of the physical pressure that new teeth create while erupting. You can soothe their gums by rubbing them with a clean finger or with a cool or wet cloth. Teething rings may also help with gum soreness. As your child gets older, their baby teeth will begin falling out, typically starting at age 6.

CARING FOR A TEETHING CHILD

Easing the Teething Process

By age 2 to 3, most children have all 20 primary (baby) teeth. Teething can be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be a painful experience. You can help soothe your child’s gums by gently rubbing them with a clean finger, a damp cloth, or the back of a cool spoon. If discomfort continues, our dentist or your child’s doctor may recommend a mild over-the-counter pain reliever. Encourage safe chewing habits with soft toys or teething rings, and keep your child away from hard surfaces or objects that could damage their teeth or gums. Avoid rubbing liquid painkillers directly on gums or giving teething biscuits that contain sugar. Remember, fever is not a normal part of teething. If your child develops one, contact your doctor.

YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT

Starting Healthy Habits Early

The Dental Association recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit within six months after their first tooth appears, or by their first birthday. Early visits help your child become comfortable in the dental environment and reduce anxiety later in life. During this visit, our dentist will check your child’s teeth and gums, provide tips on proper feeding and oral care, and discuss thumb-sucking or finger habits.

SMART BRUSHING FOR LITTLE SMILES

Toothpaste and Toothbrush Guidance

For infants, clean gums with a damp cloth until the first tooth appears, then switch to a soft finger-brush. Once more teeth come in, use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush gently to avoid irritation.


For toddlers, brushing with water or a small amount of non-fluoridated toothpaste is enough. Use a rice-sized amount and teach your child to spit it out. Avoid fluoridated toothpaste until they can spit properly, as swallowing too much fluoride can cause dental fluorosis, leading to weak enamel and spots on adult teeth. Make brushing fun by counting, singing, or brushing together to build healthy habits early.

YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT

Children’s Dental Care

Parents often focus on overall health but may overlook dental care. Children are just as vulnerable to oral health issues if they lack proper education or preventive care. Teaching good habits early helps ensure healthy teeth and gums, fewer dental problems, and better overall health throughout life. Here are some simple ways to keep your child’s smile healthy:

  • For Your Baby

    Baby bottles and sippy cups are the worst enemies in pediatric dentistry. They simply increase both the frequency and duration of contact time between teeth and sugar-containing liquids. Examples of these liquids include breast milk, formula, juice, and any other sweetened drinks. For this reason, it is extremely important to clean your baby's gums and teeth with a toothbrush or a wet gauze after feeding.

  • Instill Good Habits

    Make sure to get your child in the habit of brushing their teeth after breakfast and before they go to bed. They may not want to now, but over time they will develop a habit of doing so. Developing the habit early will make it easier for them to keep it later in life.

  • Brush Delicately

    An issue that many children have is that they brush too hard. Gums are a living tissue and are not invincible. Many adults deal with receding gum issues later in life because of aggressive brushing. This is especially important for children because their gums are still developing. Teach them to brush lightly and to use a soft-bristle toothbrush.

  • Cut Down On Sugar

    Kids are going to want sweets. Who doesn’t? The difference between adults and children is that we (usually) have self-control. This means that we know when to say no to candy, but kids will eat until they are sick. Limit candy, soda, and other surgery drinks to small amounts so that your child does not develop cavities or other health issues.

  • Tips To Help With Your Child’s Dental Fear
    1. Speak with your child about going for a visit to the dentist.
    2. Watch what you say. Do not use negative words like “hurt” or “pain” when referring to the dentist or your teeth.
    3. Bring your child with you to your dental appointments and have them sit with you in the dental chair.
    4. Give your child a soft-bristle toothbrush to practice brushing.
    5. Maintain your child’s dental visits regularly. The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday, and then every six months after that for regular cleanings and checkups.