THE FOUNDATION FOR A HEALTHY SMILE

Understanding Baby Teeth

Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, play an important role in speaking, chewing, and child oral development. Baby tooth eruption usually begins around 6 to 12 months and continues until age 2.5 to 3. During this stage, teething children may have tender or sore gums. Gentle rubbing, a cool cloth, or teething rings can help ease discomfort. As your child grows, losing baby teeth often begins around age 6.

CARING FOR A TEETHING CHILD

Easing the Teething Process

By age 2 to 3, most children have all 20 baby teeth. Good first teeth care helps protect healthy baby teeth and supports early comfort with oral routines. You can soothe gums with a clean finger, damp cloth, or cool spoon, and offer safe teething rings for chewing. Gently cleaning teeth and gums during this stage also supports toddler dental care and helps reduce early cavity risk. Avoid sugary teething biscuits, and contact your doctor if your child has a fever, since fever is not a normal part of teething.

YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT

Starting Healthy Habits Early

A first dental visit is recommended by age one or within six months of the first tooth. Early pediatric dental care allows the dentist to complete a baby teeth checkup, monitor growth, and support cavity prevention for children. These visits also give parents helpful baby tooth care tips for feeding, brushing, thumb-sucking, and daily infant oral care.

SMART BRUSHING FOR LITTLE SMILES

Toothpaste and Toothbrush Guidance

For infants, begin oral care for babies by gently cleaning the gums with a damp cloth. Once the first tooth appears, use a soft brush or finger brush for gentle baby teeth cleaning. This helps your child get used to daily oral care early.


For toddlers, toddler dental care includes brushing with a rice-sized amount of toothpaste and teaching your child to spit. Brushing together, singing, or counting can make the routine easier. These early children's dental hygiene habits support kids oral care, children's oral health, and long-term child dental health.

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 can increase contact between baby teeth and sugar-containing liquids, including breast milk, formula, juice, and sweetened drinks. To support infant oral care, oral care for babies, and cavity prevention for children, gently clean your baby’s gums and teeth with a toothbrush or wet gauze after feeding.

  • Instill Good Habits

    Help your child build strong children's dental hygiene habits by brushing after breakfast and before bed. Starting early supports kids oral care, child dental health, and long-term children's oral health.

  • Brush Delicately

    Teach your child to brush gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Gentle brushing protects developing gums and supports healthy baby teeth, primary teeth, and everyday baby teeth cleaning.

  • Cut Down On Sugar

    Limiting candy, soda, and sugary drinks can help prevent cavities and support healthy baby teeth. A balanced diet and regular brushing are important parts of preventive pediatric dentistry.

  • Tips To Help With Your Child’s Dental Fear

    Talk positively about visiting the dentist and avoid words like “hurt” or “pain.” Bring your child to your appointments, let them practice with a soft-bristle toothbrush, and maintain regular visits. A first dental visit by age one, followed by checkups every six months, supports pediatric dental care and a positive dental experience.