As a parent, watching your baby grow and develop is a wonderful journey. One big milestone is the arrival of their baby teeth. While they’re temporary, baby teeth play a crucial role in your child’s oral and overall health. Understanding what to expect, how to care for these little teeth, and why they matter can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
When Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Baby teeth, also called primary or deciduous teeth, usually begin to emerge between 6 and 10 months of age, though this can vary. Some babies may start teething earlier or later, and that’s completely normal.
The typical order of appearance is:
- Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth): 6 to 10 months.
- Upper central incisors (top front teeth): 8 to 12 months.
- Lateral incisors (next to the front teeth): 9 to 16 months.
- First molars: 13 to 19 months.
- Canines: 16 to 23 months.
- Second molars: 23 to 33 months.
By the time your child is around 3 years old, they’ll likely have all 20 of their baby teeth.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they serve many important functions:
- Chewing and nutrition: Healthy teeth help your child chew food properly, aiding digestion and nutrition.
- Speech development: Teeth are essential for forming sounds and learning to speak clearly.
- Jaw and facial development: They help maintain proper spacing and guide permanent teeth into the correct positions.
- Self-esteem: A healthy smile builds confidence, even in young children.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Good oral hygiene should begin even before the first tooth comes in. Prior to their teeth coming in, wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings. Once their teeth emerge, use a soft, infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush twice a day. At age 3, increase the toothpaste to a pea-sized amount. Encourage your child to spit, but don’t rinse with water immediately after brushing. Begin flossing when two teeth touch, and always supervise brushing until at least age 6.
The First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits help your child get comfortable with the dental office, and the dentist can check for any early signs of decay or developmental concerns.
Common Issues with Baby Teeth
- Teething discomfort: This can be soothed with a cold teething ring or clean, damp cloth.
- Baby bottle tooth decay: Avoid letting your child fall asleep with a bottle, especially if it contains anything other than water.
- Thumb sucking: While common and usually harmless in early years, prolonged thumb sucking beyond age 4 may affect dental alignment.
Baby teeth may be small, but their impact is big. By establishing good dental habits early and working closely with your child’s dentist, you’re setting the foundation for a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
About the Author
Dr. Bryce Cushing graduated with honors from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry before completing a pediatric residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, nationally recognized as one of the top 5 pediatric residencies in the country. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Cushing and our team can’t wait to meet your little one during their first checkup and cleaning! Call us today to schedule your appointment at (402) 773-7873 or visit our website.