As a new parent, you likely have a thousand questions on your mind, from what sleep schedule is best to how your baby’s bottles and pacifiers should be cleaned. After all, you want to keep your little one as happy and healthy as possible! That’s why implementing a solid oral hygiene routine is important, from their first gummy grin to their smile in their senior photos. With this in mind, keep reading for a guide to how baby teeth typically come in and fall out.
When Do Baby Teeth Come in?
Your child’s gummy grin may light up your heart, but it won’t be long before their teeth begin to make an appearance. In fact, some infants get their first tooth as early as six months old. Typically, they begin to break through the gum line between six and twelve months, starting with their lower front teeth. That’s why the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends bringing your child in for their first dental checkup on or before their first birthday.
When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?
When your child’s permanent teeth are ready to make an appearance, the roots of their baby teeth will begin to dissolve. As a result, they will loosen and fall out. Typically, this occurs in the same order they emerged, starting with their front teeth. Most children lose their first tooth around the age of six and have all of their adult teeth by 13. However, each child is different, so it’s natural for there to be some variation.
How to Keep Your Child’s Baby Teeth Healthy
All too often, parents forget just how important their child’s baby teeth are. In reality, they play a crucial role in your child’s ability to chew and speak. Therefore, help them keep their oral health in pristine condition throughout the years with the below best practices:
- Until their teeth emerge, wipe down their gums with a damp, clean washcloth morning and night.
- Once their teeth pop through the gum line, brush them with a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush twice a day.
- Bring them to their dentist for a dental checkup when their first tooth emerges (or by their first birthday).
- When they have two teeth touching, introduce flossing.
- Limit their consumption of sugary foods and beverages, like candy and soda.
Your child’s baby teeth are important for their development, so monitor them closely and keep them healthy. If your child is overdue for their six-month checkup and cleaning, then schedule an appointment with their pediatric dentist today!
About the Practice
At Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, children of all ages can benefit from the expertise of our hand-selected staff, including two pediatric dentists and an orthodontist! So, whether it’s time for your little one’s first dental appointment or your teen needs a refreshing cleaning before heading off to college, we’re here to help. To learn more about baby teeth or to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or give us a call at 603-635-1166.