Do you know why your child’s first dental visit should be while your baby is teething?

Many first-time parents are shocked to learn that their baby should be visiting the dentist before their first birthday. After all, they have a teething baby, right? Dentists recommend a baby come in for an evaluation no more than six months after their first tooth has erupted. And there’s two reasons for this.

First, it helps your child become familiar with the dentist from a young age, giving them an excellent start on healthy teeth. And second, the dentist can give you information about oral care for babies and do a quick check for potential problems. 

When do a baby’s teeth develop?

Your baby’s teeth begin to form in the womb, so it is important that the mother keeps up with taking prenatal vitamins, including calcium, phosphorus, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D. A baby’s teeth start to form when the fetus is around six weeks old, and then the dentin and enamel of the teeth begin to form when the fetus is in month three to four.

When do a baby’s teeth erupt?

After a baby is born, their teeth start to erupt when they are six to nine months old. However, because everyone develops differently, a baby’s teeth could appear earlier or later than that estimated time.

The first teeth that usually erupt in babies are the two bottom front teeth, which are known as the central incisors. Next, the central and lateral incisors normally erupt, which are the top four front teeth.

A baby’s primary teeth will continue to fill in their mouth until they are close to two-and-a-half years old, or 30 months. The teeth in a baby’s mouth tend to erupt in pairs, and normally, four baby teeth will appear every six months.

A child has 20 primary, or baby, teeth, and all of those teeth should have filled out their mouths by the time they are three years old. The last teeth to come in are the molars, which are located in the back of the mouth.

What about teething?

Teething can be a difficult time for a baby (and mom and dad!) The baby may not sleep well, and could get irritable easily. Physically, the baby can experience swelling of the gums, and even a mild fever. Parents might notice a loss of appetite and even excessive drooling. Some babies even develop a rash around their mouths as they begin teething.

So what can you do to make your baby feel better? If they are experiencing a low-grade fever, an over-the-counter medication could be recommended by your dentist or pediatrician. Doctors also recommend a lot of cuddle time for your baby. Not only does that help the baby bond with their caregiver, but it can also get the baby’s mind off the slight irritation and inflammation they may be feeling.

Another way to help alleviate the pain the baby might be experiencing is to offer them teething rings. The specially-designed products are soft and when chilled, can provide baby a cool way to soothe their gums.

If your baby is experiencing excessive drooling, make sure you are soaking up the drool as often as possible. The excess moisture can breed bacteria, which can lead to rashes around the mouth of your baby.

Schedule your baby’s first dental visit soon!

What should you expect at your child’s first dental visit? A member of the Dental Care Associates of Buffalo team will review your child’s health history first. After the initial paperwork, you and your child will be brought to an examination room where a quick dental evaluation will be performed. We allow the child to be held in the parent’s lap so the child feels comfortable and stays calm during this time.

The first dental visit is really about getting to know the child and having the child get used to the sights and sounds of the dental office, as well as the parent getting information on how to care for the baby’s teeth and to ask any questions about the child’s dental health and progress.
At Dental Care Associates of Buffalo, we want nothing but the best for your and your baby’s dental health. If your baby’s first birthday is near, be sure to schedule an appointment today!