BABY OR PRIMARY TEETH
Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are the first set of teeth that develop in infants. They usually start appearing around 6 months of age, the timing can vary for each child. By the time your child is about 3 years old, they typically have a full set of 20 baby teeth. These teeth serve several important purposes, including:
- Chewing: They allow children to chew solid foods, aiding in nutrition and digestion.
- Speech Development: Baby teeth play a role in speech development, helping children form words and sounds properly.
- Jaw and Facial Structure: Baby teeth help guide the development of the jaw and maintain space for permanent teeth.
- Self-Esteem and Comfort: Having a healthy set of teeth helps children feel confident about their appearance and smile.
Stages of Baby Teeth
- Incisors: The front teeth, usually appear first.
- Canines: Also called cuspids, these appear around the age of 16-20 months.
- Molars: The back teeth, which help in grinding food, come in last.
Around the age of 6, children begin to lose their baby teeth to make way for permanent teeth, a process that typically completes by age 12-13.
Dental Care for Baby Teeth
Taking care of baby teeth is crucial for ensuring your child’s dental health and setting the stage for healthy permanent teeth. Here are some key steps to follow:
Start Early
Begin Cleaning: Clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth even before their first teeth appear. Once teeth come in, start brushing.
Use the Right Tools: Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice for children under 3 years).
Establish a Routine
Brush Twice Daily: Aim to brush your child’s teeth at least twice a day—once in the morning and once before bedtime.
Make It Fun: Encourage your child to brush by singing songs or using a timer to make it engaging.
Teach Proper Brushing Techniques
Gentle Circular Motions: Show your child how to brush using gentle circular motions, making sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth (front, back, and chewing surfaces).
Don’t Forget the Gums: Gently brush the gums and tongue to keep the mouth clean.
Dietary Choices
Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Avoid sugary snacks and beverages, especially between meals. Offer healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables instead.
Encourage Water: Water is the best beverage for hydration and helps wash away food particles.
Regular Dental Visits
First Dental Checkup: Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.
Routine Checkups: Follow up with regular dental checkups every six months or as recommended by your dentist.
Avoid Habits That Harm Teeth
No Bottle in Bed: Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle, as this can lead to tooth decay.
Discourage Thumb Sucking: While thumb sucking is common, encourage your child to stop as they get older to avoid misalignment of teeth.
Fluoride Use
Fluoride Toothpaste: After age 2, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Consult Your Dentist: Ask your dentist about fluoride varnish treatments if your child is at high risk for cavities.
Monitor Teeth Development
Watch for Signs of Problems: Be alert to signs of cavities or decay, such as dark spots on the teeth, sensitivity, or changes in eating habits.
Encourage Good Habits: Teach your child about the importance of oral hygiene and make it a part of their daily routine.
Stay Consistent with Regular Checkups
Regular dental checkups every six months help monitor oral health, check for cavities, and ensure baby teeth are developing well to make space for permanent teeth.
Get in touch with our team at Heritage Dental Group on 07 38783384 for more information.
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Children’s Dentist Indooroopilly