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What’s The Difference Between “Baby” Teeth And Permanent Teeth?

At between six and ten months of age, most infants begin to get their “baby” teeth. The central incisors (front middle teeth) usually come in first, and then teeth begin appearing on either side and work their way back to the second molars. By the time a child has reached three years old, most of the “baby” teeth should be present. The process begins to repeat itself when the child is about seven years old. The central incisors fall out first and are replaced by permanent teeth. By the age of 21, most people have all of their permanent teeth.

“Baby” teeth are important because they hold the place for permanent teeth and help guide them into correct position. “Baby” teeth play an important role in the development of speech and chewing.

Brushing and flossing help remove harmful plaque bacteria. A child-size brush with soft, rounded or polished bristles is recommended. Check your child’s toothbrush often and replace it when it is worn. Bent or frayed bristles will not remove plaque effectively and may injure gums. Begin daily brushing as soon as the child’s first tooth erupts. A pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste can be used after the child is old enough not to swallow it. By age 4 or 5, children should be able to brush their own teeth twice a day with supervision until about age seven to make sure they are doing a thorough job. However, each child is different. Proper brushing removes plaque from the inner, outer and chewing surfaces. When teaching how to brush, you may wish to stand behind the child and hold the brush to be certain that brushing is done properly. Flossing removes plaque between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing should begin when any two teeth touch.

When Should I Take My Child To The Dentist For The First Time?

It is advisable that you discuss this with the dentist first, but the child could accompany you on your own routine check-up, as this can help the child to become familiar with the surroundings. Your dentist will be able to offer advice and prescribe medicines for teething pains, and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. The baby’s own check-ups can start at about 6 months.

When Should I Start Cleaning My Child’s Teeth?

Young children are obviously not able to clean their own teeth and will be unable to clean them effectively until about the age of 6 years. Until this time they will need help. You should first start cleaning your child’s teeth once teething has started.

When Will My Baby’s Teeth Appear And Is Teething Painful?

Your baby will start teething at about 6 months and will continue until all 20 ‘milk teeth’ are present at about 2 years ‘Second teeth’ usually develop between 6 and 14 years.

Most children do suffer teething pains to some extent. Gels may be applied by the finger gently massaging the baby’s gums, although this can be difficult due to the amount of saliva in the baby’s mouth caused through teething. Certain teething rings can be cooled in the fridge which may help but, as teething pains vary, it is best to check with your dentist

What If My Child Damages A Tooth?

In the event of any accidents or damage to the teeth, contact us immediately. If the tooth has fallen out, put the tooth in a glass of milk and bring the tooth with you to the Practice.

If this occurs outside our normal opening hours, please call the emergency number: 111