Pediatric FAQS

A baby's first teeth begin to appear in the 6 to 12-month range. Typically, it’s the two lower front ones that appear first. The baby teeth come into place from the front of the mouth and then on to the back. Most children will have all their baby teeth by the time they are three.

For babies with new teeth just emerging, we may recommend just a washcloth or infant toothbrush to start. As your baby grows and more teeth come in, an age-appropriate soft bristled brush and a tiny dab of toothpaste will be recommended. Be careful that your child does not swallow the toothpaste. As your child gets older, we will teach them about proper oral hygiene and self-care responsibilities.

Teething can make a baby irritable, cause trouble sleeping, reduce appetite, and increase drooling. While you cannot speed up teething, you can help soothe your baby using safe teething rings, a cold spoon, or a moist gauze rubbed over their gums. You can always call our office if you have concerns.

Baby teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, and smiling. They also act as placeholders for permanent teeth. Losing a baby tooth too early can result in misalignment of permanent teeth.

Baby teeth are just as susceptible to cavities as permanent teeth. Over 50% of children develop cavities before age five. Untreated decay can affect the health of baby teeth and impact permanent teeth. Proper oral care and early dental visits are important for prevention.

Baby bottle syndrome, also known as nursing bottle syndrome, is tooth decay caused by babies sleeping with a bottle of milk or juice. It primarily affects the upper front teeth and can require extensive dental work. Parents should avoid letting their baby sleep with a bottle or replace milk/juice with water.

Thumb or finger sucking is a comforting habit for many children, but if it continues past age five or six, it can affect teeth alignment, jaw growth, speech, and swallowing. At this point, guidance to stop the habit and possibly orthodontic care may be necessary.

The American Dental Association recommends a routine dental checkup every six months. These visits include an exam of the teeth, gums, and jaws, a cleaning, oral hygiene guidance, and nutritional advice. Early detection of dental issues ensures prompt treatment.

We provide gentle, compassionate care designed for children’s comfort. For anxious children or those with special needs, we can discuss the best care options, including dental sedation if necessary.

Back-to-school checkups ensure your child starts the academic year in good health. Maintaining a healthy smile helps prevent setbacks and supports a lifetime of optimal oral health.