Your child is about to get their first baby tooth. And you’ve got questions. So in this blog from Gary D. Sabbadini, DDS, APC, we’ll give you the answers! Read on, and get simple answers to the top 10 FAQs new parents have about baby teeth.
When Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Kids usually get their first teeth between the ages of 6-12 months. Usually, their bottom front teeth come in first, followed by their upper front teeth. Their baby teeth will continue to emerge until they’re about three years old. Your child will get the rest of their front teeth first, and their rear teeth and molars will come in last.
When Do I Start Brushing My Child’s Teeth?
As soon as they’ve got them! Once your child has teeth, brush them gently twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. You should brush their gums, too, since that helps keep their gums healthy.
How Long Will I Have To Brush My Child’s Teeth?
For a while. Kids can’t usually brush their own teeth until they’re about 5-6, or have enough motor skills to tie their shoelaces on their own. Make sure you brush their teeth twice a day until your child can take over for you!
Do I Need To Floss My Child’s Baby Teeth, Too?
Yep! Once they have two teeth that are touching, you should start flossing your child’s teeth once per day. This helps remove plaque and debris that can’t be eliminated with brushing alone. In turn, this helps prevent things like tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease.
When Should I Take My Child To The Dentist For The First Time?
The AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) recommends that kids see a dentist at the age of 12 months or when their first tooth erupts, whichever comes first. That is Dr. Sabbadni's recommendation as well!
When Do Baby Teeth Get Replaced By Adult Teeth?
Your child will start losing their baby teeth around the age of 6, as their adult teeth erupt. Your child’s first molars will erupt around the age of 6, and so will their adult front teeth. Your little one will continue shedding their baby teeth until they’re about 12-13, which is when their last set of adult molars will emerge. Their wisdom teeth will emerge between the ages of 17-25.
What If A Baby Tooth Falls Out Early?
If the adult tooth is about to come out, it doesn’t matter if a baby tooth falls out a little bit early. However, if a tooth falls out or has to be extracted much earlier than normal, Dr. Sabbadini will place a space maintainer. This is a prosthetic that’s placed in the empty socket, and it preserves the proper spacing in your child’s mouth.
Why Are Baby Teeth Spaced Out So Much More Than Adult Teeth?
They’re smaller, and there are less of them. Kids only get 20 baby teeth, compared to 32 adult teeth. Because of this, baby teeth look a lot smaller, especially in older kids.
What Are The Signs Of Cavities In Baby Teeth?
If you think your child has cavities, look for dark patches and discolorations on their teeth. Visible holes and pits in the teeth could also indicate cavities. Your child may also complain of some tooth pain or tenderness. See a dentist right away if you think your child may have cavities.
How Do I Prevent Cavities In Baby Teeth?
Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and floss once per day. Feed your child a healthy diet that’s low in sugar. Give them whole grains, healthy dairy, lean meats, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid juice and sugary soda, and let them drink only water and milk.
You also should see a pediatric dentist for a checkup every six months. During their appointment at our office, Dr. Sabbadini will examine your child’s teeth and keep an eye on your child’s oral health. This helps our team catch any potential cavities early, before they get worse.
Does Your Child Have Their First Baby Tooth? Come Into Our Office For A Checkup!
Whether you’re a new parent or just new to the area, the team at Gary D. Sabbadini, DDS, APC is here for your child. We’re always accepting new patients in Pinole, CA, and we’d love to meet your family. To get started, book an appointment online or give us a call at 510-724-4400 to schedule your little one’s first appointment.