Facts You Should Know About Baby Teeth

If you’re like most parents, you simply cannot get enough of your baby’s gummy smile. Their toothless grin gets you every time, but you suddenly discover how fleeting this expression is when you enter the teething stage. But what if your little one has yet to start the crying, fussing, and chewing associated with incoming baby teeth? Should you be concerned? Before you begin to panic, here are a few key facts you should know when it comes to your child’s growing smile.

Tooth Eruption Typically Occurs Between 6 and 12 Months

Every baby is different, but the average age for a child to receive their first tooth is between the ages of 6 and 12 months. It’s natural to be a bit concerned if you don’t see one of their pearly whites popping through at the halfway point to their first birthday, but don’t be alarmed. Even if your child keeps their gummy smile until they reach the age of one, it’s completely normal.

Don’t Use Teething Gels, Tablets, or Necklaces

When your baby does start teething, you may be tempted to follow the advice of a close friend or societal trend. Unfortunately, many of the popular recommendations available today can be dangerous to your child’s health and safety. Amber necklaces are common but can be a choking hazard. Also, using benzocaine (Orajel) and teething tablets that contain belladonna can cause harmful side effects, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Instead, opt for teething toys or a cold washcloth they can chew on to numb their gums.

Brushing Twice a Day is Key

As soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, you can begin to use a finger brush or regular soft-bristled infant brush with a smear of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice). You’ll need to keep it clean by brushing it twice a day. This will prevent tooth decay from forming. But you’ll also need to be mindful about giving your child a bottle, especially if it’s filled with milk, before bed. You should never leave sugary contents on your baby’s teeth, as it can lead to cavities.

Keeping Baby Teeth in Place is Important

Your child’s baby teeth should remain in place until they decide to fall out on their own. Poor oral hygiene and nutrition can put them at risk of potentially losing a primary tooth too early. Should this happen, not only will they experience difficulty eating and speaking, but their nearby teeth can drift out of alignment, which will cause problems when the permanent tooth attempts to erupt. It will be necessary for your child’s pediatric dentist to insert a space maintainer to minimize the risk.

If you’re nervous about what you can expect when your child’s baby teeth start moving into place, don’t be. Watch their smile grow into something beautiful and partner with their pediatric dentist to ensure the future of their teeth and gums.

About the Author
Dr. Melissa Rozas is a pediatric dentist in Coppell. After finishing her pediatric dental residency at UT/Herman Hospital, she became board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She and her team understand the concerns of parents whose children have yet or are currently teething. If you need help to better prepare for this stage, contact us at (972) 433-7516.