Common Questions About Baby Teeth

Have a baby or expecting one?  It’s so important to know about baby teeth and how to care for them. Nurturing their teeth as they grow and develop is putting them on the right track for good oral health throughout their life!

Here are the most common questions about baby teeth:

When Do Primary Teeth Start to Grow?

At around six months of age, you can expect your baby to start growing their primary teeth. Most people refer to these as “baby teeth”.

When Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?

A child should have their first visit to the dentist by the time they turn one year old – or – within six months after their get their first tooth.

When Should I Start Brushing My Child’s Teeth?

You should start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they appear. Use an infant toothbrush and just a tiny smear of toothpaste (as they will not be able to spit it out). Most kids will be able to spit while brushing around two years old. At this time until around age 5, they should only be using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.

How is the Enamel Different on Baby Teeth?

The enamel on baby teeth is not as strong as it is on adult teeth, so it is more prone to tooth decay from sugar and bacteria. More damage can be done and cavities can occur easier.

When Do Children Start to Lose their Baby Teeth?

On average, kids lose their two front bottom teeth first around age five or six. This could be sooner or later, depending on the child.

What is Teething?

Teething is when the baby teeth start to push through, which can be very uncomfortable. In most cases, the pain stops once the tooth is visible.

What are the Signs that Teething is Going to Happen Soon?

Your baby may get swollen gums, hot / red cheeks, chew on more things than usual, dribble more, and seem irritable. Note: if your child has a fever or various other symptoms, see your doctor, as that would not be due to teething.

How Can I Comfort My Teething Baby?

Comfort your baby with lots of love and care. Buy a teething ring that you can chill in the fridge (not freeze). Never give them any medication unless it is prescribed by a doctor. Always ask your doctor or dentist if you are unsure of what to do.

More questions? Ask your dentist!  You can never have too much information when it comes to the well-being of your child! If you live in Surrey, Delta, or the surrounding area, come to our dental clinic!