Enjoy your child’s gummy grin as long as you can because before you know it, that first tooth will have them drooling and chewing more than you realize. It’s exciting to see their tiny smiles grow, and it comes with some big milestones you won’t want to miss. From teething to Tooth Fairy visits and more, this complete guide to baby teeth will help you understand what to expect as your child’s smile grows.
When the First Teeth Arrive
Whether you’re a new or seasoned parent, your child’s first teeth will likely erupt between 6 and 12 months. Every smile is different, so don’t be too alarmed if you don’t see their tiny tooth buds right away. The first ones to arrive are usually the lower front two teeth, quickly followed by the upper front two teeth. By the time your child reaches the age of 3, they should have all of their baby teeth.
When to Incorporate Fluoride
Fluoride isn’t something to be scared of; it protects smiles against decay and keeps tooth enamel strong. As soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (this is the size of a grain of rice) to clean it. Also, once you start feeding them solid foods, give them tap water instead of juice or milk so the fluoride in the water provides even more protection.
How to Navigate the Teething Phase
No matter how many children you have, teething looks different for every kid. Some breeze through it while others leave everyone in the house tired and irritable. Teething usually comes with excessive drooling, gnawing on hands and objects, and fussiness. If you notice these signs, try massaging your little one’s sore gums, giving them something cool to chew on (a clean washcloth or teether), or providing age-appropriate doses of over-the-counter pain reliever.
When to Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Appointment
With baby teeth come regular dental visits. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all children see a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. This allows a professional to form a baseline and examine your child’s growing smile. They will provide you with clear instructions on how to clean your little one’s teeth and gums and recommend preventive treatment options as their smile continues to develop.
Baby teeth don’t last forever, but what you start now can carry over as they grow. Understanding what to expect at every stage will make it easier to support your child as they pursue better oral health for a lifetime.
About the Practice
Treehouse Pediatric Dentistry isn’t just staffed by board-certified pediatric dentists; it’s led by parents who understand the uncertainty you likely feel about your child’s smile. As they grow, their smile changes, which can bring a lot of questions. Fortunately, our team is here to answer them and offer helpful tips to make each stage of oral development smoother and easier for everyone. Want to learn more about baby teeth and what to expect? Visit our website or call (413) 584-7773 to schedule an appointment.