As a parent, you may find yourself wondering about your child's dental development and when their baby teeth will come in. In this blog, our Columbia & Eldersburg pediatric dentists discuss the intricacies of dental development in children, providing you with a roadmap of what to expect as your child grows. Whether you're a first-time parent or looking for a refresher, our guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and tips needed to navigate this exciting phase of your child's life.
Understanding the Timeline
Every child is unique, and so is their dental development. Generally, baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, start to appear when a baby is around six months old. By the time your child is three, they should have a full set of 20 baby teeth. These teeth serve as placeholders for the adult teeth that grow in after the baby teeth fall out.
The Importance of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth might be temporary, but they're incredibly important. They not only help your child chew and speak properly but also guide the permanent teeth into their correct positions. That's why it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene from the moment the first tooth comes in.
Signs Your Baby is Teething
The teething process is a significant milestone in your baby's development. It’s often accompanied by a set of symptoms that signal their first teeth are about to emerge. Recognizing these signs not only helps you understand what your baby is going through but also allows you to provide the right comfort and care during this tender phase. Here are the key things to look out for:
- Increased Drooling: You might notice your baby drooling more than usual. This is because the process of teething stimulates saliva production.
- Irritability or Fussiness: The discomfort of teeth pushing through the gums can make your baby more irritable or fussy than usual.
- Slight Increase in Temperature: While teething can cause a minor increase in temperature, it's important to note that a high fever is not a typical symptom of teething and may indicate something else.
- Gnawing or Chewing on Hard Objects: The pressure from biting on solid objects can provide relief to your baby, so you might find them wanting to chew on toys, fingers, or other hard objects.
- Redness and Swelling of the Gums: Before a tooth emerges, the area of the gum where the tooth is coming in might look red and swollen.
- Difficulty Sleeping: The discomfort associated with teething can disrupt your baby's sleep patterns, leading to more wakefulness or trouble falling asleep.
- Rubbing Face and Ears: Babies might rub their faces or tug on their ears as a way to relieve the discomfort in their gums.
How to Care for Your Baby's Teeth
Caring for your baby's teeth begins even before the first tooth appears. Use a soft, clean cloth to gently wipe your baby's gums. Once the first tooth comes in, start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. We're here to guide you through every step of your child's dental journey.
Looking For Care Near Columbia and Eldersburg? Schedule Your Child's First Dental Visit
At Tiny Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in the importance of early dental care. We recommend scheduling your child's first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. Our team, led by Dr. Su Kim, is dedicated to providing a warm, welcoming environment where your child can feel comfortable. Don't wait—call us today at (443) 832-6111 to request an appointment. We're excited to help your child begin a lifetime of healthy smiles!