Children's Dental Questions

Establishing good dental hygiene is specially important for your children because it sets the tone for lifelong dental health. From the time your baby's first teeth come in -- usually between the ages of three and six months -- the teeth will serve important functions and must be properly cared for. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, establishing a good relationship with a pediatric dentist very early on is key keeping kids' smiles healthy.

When Should I Start Brushing?

• Your baby's teeth need to be brushed regularly as soon as they come in. In fact, even before the first tooth erupts a baby's gums should be wiped with a clean, damp cloth, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Once the teeth are visible, they should be brushed two times a day with a soft toothbrush. Use a small amount of toothpaste, but be sure to avoid products containing fluoride until the child is about preschool age, which is when children understand not to swallow the toothpaste. Also, keep in mind that young children are not very good at thoroughly brushing their teeth and will need help from a parent or caregiver.

When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?

• The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children make their first trip to the dentist when their first tooth comes in, or no later than their first birthday. This will help prevent and identify any problems with a child's teeth and To establish a good dental health routine. After the first visit, children should generally see the dentist every six months for teeth cleanings and check-ups.

How Can I Prevent Plaque and Tooth Decay on My Child's Teeth?

• It's important not to allow babies and toddlers to fall asleep with bottles and cups in their mouths because this can promote tooth decay. Also, never give children juice in a bottle, and limit fruit juice consumption to meals and snacks. Finally, youngsters should be weaned from the bottle completely between the ages of 12 and 14 months to promote healthy teeth. In addition to these tips, the best way to prevent tooth decay is to brush the teeth twice daily and get regular teeth cleanings.

How Important Are Baby Teeth?

• Although they will eventually fall out, it's important to practice good dental hygiene with baby teeth because they serve as placeholders for the adult teeth. In addition, they help children eat properly and speak clearly.

When Do Baby Teeth Start to Fall Out?

• Losing teeth differs from child to child, but most kids will start to lose their baby teeth when they are about 6 or 7. Kids will keep losing teeth until the second molars fall out, usually by the age of 13. After those teeth come out, no changes occur until the wisdom teeth come in, which usually happens between the ages of 17 and 22.