Although every baby is unique, primary teeth, more commonly referred to as "baby teeth" typically first appear between the ages of four months to one year. By age 3, all baby teeth should have arrived.

A child’s primary teeth are very important to his or her growth from infancy to adolescence. First, baby teeth help children develop speech patterns and of course to chew their food. Second, they also reserve spaces in the gums of the jaws for permanent teeth that are developing under the baby teeth, and when they fall out, a child’s permanent teeth will begin to appear.

According to the American Dental Association, parents should bring their babies into the dental office within six months of the first tooth eruption. In addition, the appointment should not be made any later than the child’s first birthday in order to assure correct dental care and to make sure there has not been any decay to the baby teeth. Finally, it is important for your child to become accustomed to going to the dentist early in order to establish the office as a safe place and routine.

The development of baby teeth causes the process of "teething", which should be soothed by giving your baby a cold teething ring or washcloth to chew on. Teething gels are also available but should be used in moderation.

Breastfeeding is actually good for your baby’s tooth development; however, please be sure to brush your baby’s teeth after the last feeding (whether breast or bottle) of the day, as milk can cause some tooth decay overnight.

As soon as the first tooth appears, the ADA recommends brushing your baby’s teeth twice a day, most importantly just before bedtime. Toothbrushes specifically designed for infants are available at most drugstores, and they are much smaller and softer than those for adults. Special toothpaste for children is also available and strongly recommended, as it does not contain as much fluoride as those for adults. Please use toothpaste in moderation as your baby will most likely swallow some, and toothpaste is not recommended to be ingested. A little bit of toothpaste goes a long way, especially on your child’s baby teeth.

The average age for your child to begin losing his or her teeth is typically ages 6-7, although some kids do begin losing them at age 5.

The child’s permanent teeth should begin to grow in quickly after he or she loses the baby teeth, which should be around ages 6-8.

Thumb sucking or pacifiers can affect the form of the baby teeth, pushing them forward due to the weight of the thumb. Try to discourage your child from thumb sucking or using a pacifier as he or she grows older. Also, never "sweeten" your child’s pacifier with juice or sugar. Prolonged exposure will cause tooth decay.

My child's new tooth is coming in behind her baby tooth. Is this normal?

Yes, this is fairly normal. To make sure that there isn't any abnormal crowding, which can sometimes be corrected by extracting the baby tooth, have your child's dentist evaluate the situation.

In closing, it is very important to expose your child at an early age to proper tooth and gum care, as it will be very important throughout your child’s life and to set up routines as an adult. Any further concerns you may have about your baby’s teeth and oral care may be directed to our offices at 713.795.5905.

Sincerely,

The Medical Center Dental Group

Dr. Dale Brant, Dr. Charles Campbell, and Dr. Elizabeth O'Sullivan-Winslow