A baby's first teeth typically appear between 6 to 12 months of age. Usually, the two lower front teeth appear first. Baby teeth emerge from the front of the mouth and progress to the back. Most children have all their baby teeth by age three.
For babies with newly emerging teeth, we recommend using a washcloth or infant toothbrush. As your child grows and more teeth come in, use an age-appropriate soft-bristled toothbrush with a tiny dab of toothpaste. Be careful your child does not swallow the toothpaste. As your child gets older, we teach proper self-care and oral hygiene habits.
Teething is an important developmental milestone, but it can make your baby irritable. Common symptoms include fussiness, trouble sleeping, avoidance of eating, and drooling. To soothe your baby, try safe teething rings, a cold spoon, or a moist gauze rubbed over the gums. Contact our office if you have any concerns.
Baby teeth allow your child to smile, eat, and speak properly and serve as placeholders for permanent teeth. Losing a baby tooth too early can lead to misaligned teeth.
Baby teeth are just as susceptible to decay as permanent teeth. Over 50% of children develop cavities before age five. Untreated decay can affect overall health and future permanent teeth.
Baby bottle syndrome, or nursing bottle syndrome, is tooth decay caused by sleeping with a bottle containing milk or juice. It mainly affects the upper front teeth and may require extensive dental treatment. Avoid letting your baby sleep with a bottle or replace its contents with water.
Thumb or finger sucking is a common comfort habit. If it persists beyond age five or six, it may affect teeth alignment, jaw development, speech, or swallowing. Constructive guidance and, if needed, orthodontic care can help stop the habit.
The American Dental Association recommends a checkup every six months. During these visits, the dentist evaluates teeth, gums, and jaws, performs a cleaning, provides oral hygiene guidance, and addresses any emerging dental issues.
We provide gentle, compassionate care in a child-friendly environment. For anxious children, those with medical conditions, or special needs, we discuss options for care, including dental sedation, to ensure comfort and safety.
Back-to-school checkups ensure your child starts the school year healthy. Maintaining oral health helps prevent setbacks and supports a foundation for lifelong healthy dental habits.
Cavities form when plaque is not consistently removed. Poor oral hygiene and dietary habits increase risk. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants are effective preventive measures.
If a primary tooth is lost early due to decay or injury, a space maintainer can hold the space for the permanent tooth. This prevents crowding or misalignment as the permanent tooth emerges.
Orthodontic issues can often be identified by first or second grade. Our office monitors facial growth, jaw development, and smile alignment. We advise parents on the appropriate time for intervention.
Sports mouthguards are recommended for children and teens who play sports. Properly fitted mouthguards protect teeth, lips, tongue, and jaws from injury.
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars and premolars. They help block bacteria and acids, reducing the risk of decay.
Wisdom teeth typically emerge between ages 17 and 21. If they are impacted, misaligned, or causing problems, extraction may be necessary. We monitor their development at every checkup.
