A baby’s teeth usually start to erupt (come in) when the child is about six months old. By age three, most children have a full set of twenty baby teeth. The chart above gives a very good timeline as to when you should expect your child’s teeth to erupt and when you can expect they will loose their baby teeth.
Your child’s baby teeth help your child chew and speak normally. They also hold the space in the jaws for the adult teeth that come in later. Starting your child with good oral care can help protect their teeth now and into the future.
Cleaning Your Baby’s Teeth
After each feeding, wipe your baby’s gums with a damp washcloth. This will remove plaque debris and food particles that can harm erupting teeth. This also helps your child get accustomed to having an adult help them with their oral health care, and having someone else’s fingers in their mouth. When you child’s teeth begin to erupt, brush them with a child-sized toothbrush and water or infant toothpaste. It is important to not use fluoride toothpaste until your child is two, or until talking with your child’s dentist or pediatrician.
First Dental Visit
It has been recommended by the American Dental Association to schedule your child’s first dental visit as soon as your child’s first tooth appears, or before their first birthday. We encourage parents to discuss their child’s dental needs during their own preventative care appointments, and discuss with the dentist the appropriate time to schedule the child’s first well-child checkup. Many times we begin to see children around age three. It’s best to have your child meet the dentist when your child is having no dental problems – don’t wait until and emergency comes up. Having a well-baby checkup at this age connects your child to a dental home. Call 520-886-6054 to schedule your child’s first visit at Dental Care on Golf Links.
