Baby Teeth FAQ: Everything Parents Should Know

posted on 8/1/2024 in General

Baby teeth are a normal part of your child’s development, but the process of them growing in can be a significant source of stress for parents. Teething may make an infant uncomfortable and irritable, leading to questions about the process and how you can put your child at ease. Whether you’re already seeing teeth emerging or are preparing for this phase, we have the answers to all of your most commonly asked questions about baby teeth.

What Are Baby Teeth?

Baby teeth, also referred to as primary teeth, deciduous teeth, or milk teeth, are the first set of teeth that develop in young children. They will eventually be lost and replaced with permanent teeth.

When Do Baby Teeth Start to Grow In?

Most infants begin teething around six months old, with the first tooth emerging between four and seven months. However, there is a wide range for when teeth start to develop, so it’s not usually cause for concern if your child isn’t exactly within this timeframe. If your child doesn’t have any teeth by 18 months, consult a pediatric dentist.

How Many Baby Teeth Do Kids Have?

It’s most common for infants to have 20 baby teeth that emerge from the gums at different stages. These teeth fall out as they get older, making way for 32 permanent teeth.

What Are Common Signs of Teething?

There are several signs that can indicate your child is teething:

• Increased drooling
• Chewing or biting to relieve pressure
• Irritability 
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen or tender gums
• Difficulty sleeping
• Coughing
• Low-grade fever
• Rubbing cheeks or pulling ears

In some cases, these signs can mirror the symptoms of a cold. If you have any concerns that your child might have a more serious illness, contact your pediatrician.

How Can I Help Relieve Teething Pain?

It can be difficult to watch your child suffer from teething pain. Here are a few common methods you can use to soothe sore gums in babies.

• Massage their gums with a clean finger to ease pressure.
• Refrigerate rubber teething rings or a damp towel for them to have cold objects to chew on.
• Use an infant-safe pain reliever like acetaminophen, closely following directions on the label.
• Comfort and play with them to distract from the pain they’re experiencing.

In general, frozen objects should be avoided because they can become too hard and cold, potentially harming your baby’s gums.

When Should I Start Brushing Baby Teeth?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste to brush baby teeth twice a day as soon as they emerge. Be sure to use a soft, appropriately sized toothbrush and limit the amount of toothpaste your child swallows.

Should I Floss Baby Teeth?

Yes, you should start flossing baby teeth as soon as your child has two teeth that touch. This typically happens between the ages of two to three. Consult with your dentist on methods that can help young children floss effectively.

When Should My Child Have Their First Dentist Visit?

As a general rule of thumb, your child’s first dental visit should happen within six months of the first tooth appearing, and no later than their first birthday. The dentist will complete an examination of teeth and gums to monitor development, as well as a gentle cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar.

How Does Thumb Sucking Impact Baby Teeth?

Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for babies to soothe themselves. However, a long-term habit or vigorous sucking comes with risks like misaligned permanent teeth or changes to the structure of your child’s mouth. As baby teeth start coming in, it’s a good idea to work on breaking this habit.

When Do Kids Start Losing Baby Teeth?

As primary teeth start growing in, baby teeth will loosen and fall out naturally. This typically happens around age six. The first to fall out are usually the two bottom front teeth and two top front teeth.

Should I Pull Out Loose Baby Teeth?

It’s best to let loose baby teeth fall out on their own instead of pulling them. Removing baby teeth prematurely can cause damage to soft tissue, as well as cause excess bleeding and pain. When the tooth can be moved and rotated without any discomfort, it should be ready for removal.

Schedule an Appointment With Kimball & Beecher

At Kimball & Beecher, we offer a wide range of pediatric dental services to help keep your children’s teeth strong and healthy. With our comfort-first approach, we put young patients at ease and help them develop positive habits they’ll benefit from for years to come. Schedule an appointment online today, or give us a call at any of our locations across Iowa.