Your Child's First Teeth

Your child’s first tooth is a big developmental milestone, so it’s important for you to know what to expect and how to maintain your child’s teeth when they start coming in. It’s just as vital to take care of baby teeth as it is permanent teeth, even though the baby teeth eventually fall out. Improper dental hygiene can set your child up for oral complications early on, as well as poor dental hygiene habits down the road, including more severe oral issues. Be sure to look for the signs that their baby teeth are coming in and take the proper steps to keeping them healthy.

Eruption of Baby Teeth

child teeth chartBaby teeth typically erupt in the lower front teeth region, with most children obtaining all their baby teeth by three years old. For some children, this timeline varies. Some may not experience their first erupted baby tooth until their first birthday.

Teething

Teething is an indicator that your child’s baby teeth are coming in, and is usually accompanied by slight discomfort, excessive drooling, and swollen or tender gums. Some tips to remember when teething begins include:

  • Massage your child’s gums with a clean finger to ease some discomfort.
  • Offer a solid, not liquid-filled, teething ring (can be frozen).
  • Offer a clean, frozen, or wet washcloth.
  • Offer a teething biscuit, but be sure to monitor your child while they eat it.
  • If discomfort persists, talk to your child’s pediatrician about a safe dose of liquid acetaminophen.
  • Avoid teething tablets that contain belladonna and benzocaine gel, as these substances can be potentially toxic to your child.
  • Never use a teething necklace, as your child will be at risk for strangulation or choking.

Proper Oral Hygiene

Once your child’s first tooth comes in, you will need to begin an oral hygiene routine with them. The process slightly changes as they grow, so some helpful tips include:

  • Brushing twice a day with a grain-of-rice-sized dollop of fluoride toothpaste, especially after consuming foods or beverages.
  • Refrain from letting your child go to bed with a bottle since this can lead to tooth decay.
  • When your child turns three years old, you may increase fluoride toothpaste to a pea-sized amount when brushing.
  • When your child is at the developmental stage where they can spit, teach them to spit out the excess toothpaste after brushing.
  • It’s recommended that the parent place the toothpaste on their child’s toothbrush until they reach six years of age.
  • Parents should monitor and assist their child while brushing until they reach seven or eight years old.

Importance of Fluoride

Fluoride is an essential mineral for preventing tooth decay, as it works to harden the enamel of the teeth. Fluoride is often found in tap water, rarely ever bottled, so it’s a good idea to give your child tap water when they begin eating solid foods. If you feel that your child is not consuming enough fluoride, talk to your pediatric dentist about fluoride supplements.

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

We look forward to hearing from you.

Monday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    I have discoloration on my front teeth. Dr. Cajulis eliminated the yellowing. My teeth are whiter and brighter now. I feel more confident smiling. Thank you!

    Jacob K.

    This was my first visit to Dr. Cajulis so she just did an assessment of my dental situation. I thought she was very gentle, knowledgeable and experienced. I felt I could trust her with my dental issues.

    Maria E.

    Dr Cajulis was able to repair my retainer so that I can use it for another couple of years. I was surprised because I thought I would need to have a new one made. She and her staff are always extremely courteous and professional.

    Diana B.

    The team there are beyond professional and courteous. Dr. Cajulis and Bahar are excellent and make you feel comfortable, especially for folks who get nervous with dental visits. :)

    George C.

    Dr. Tamkin took her time and was so nice. I trusted her right off the bat. And her assistant Ashley seemed like a long lost friend. Everyone I encountered was so lovely. Would highly recommend this practice.

    Elisa F.

    Very compassionate and kind. Good at providing patient education.
    Office staff is all very friendly....went above and beyond to provide evidence-based patient /staff safety during covid precautions. Ashley, asst, is a gem!!

    Jean W.