Dentition

Teething is considered one of the first rituals of the human being. Although babies don’t have teeth yet, they begin to show when they are around six months old. In the first few years of life, all 20 of their baby teeth will come through the gums, and by age 3, most children will have their full set of teeth. By the time a baby is around 6 months old, all four front teeth often erupt from the gums, although some children only get their first tooth when they are 12 to 14 months old.

When their teeth start to show, some babies become irritable, fussy, sleepless, drool more often, or lose their appetite. When babies are teething, they usually don’t have diarrhea, fever, or rashes. So, in case you experience such symptoms and continue to be irritable and restless, see your doctor.

First visit to the dentist

Once your child’s first tooth appears, schedule a visit to the doctor. According to the ADA, the first dental visit must take place within six months after the appearance of the first tooth, and no later than the first birthday. Don’t put it off until school is about to start or when there is a problem.

Teach your child to be comfortable with good dental habits. Usually, during the first visit, the dentist will only examine your child’s mouth to check for tooth development and to make your child comfortable. To make the visit to the dentist more favorable:

• Schedule an appointment during the day so the kids are well-rested and cooperative.

• Keep your worries to yourself. Children can easily feel your emotions, so emphasize the positives.

• Never use a visit to the dentist to punish/threaten your child.

• Never use a visit to the dentist as a bribe.

• Talk positively with your child about going to the dentist.

At your dental visit, expect the dentist to:

• Examine for oral problems or cavities;

• Reveal if there is any risk of developing cavities;

• Clean teeth and give tips for daily care;

• Discuss teething, pacifier use, or thumb sucking habits;

• Discuss the necessary treatment and schedule the next appointment.

Fluoride

The mineral called fluoride is found naturally in all sources of water, such as lakes, oceans, and rivers. It is also sometimes included in toothpaste, mouthwashes, and various community tap waters. Babies, as well as young children who do not get enough fluoride, may be more prone to cavities because fluoride protects tooth enamel.

Fluoride also repairs weakened enamel. Since not all bottled water contains fluoride, children who regularly drink bottled water or tap water without fluoride do not enjoy its benefits. If you have questions about whether or not your tap water contains fluoride, check with your state or local health department or water supplier.

pacifiers

It is quite common for babies and younger children to suck on their thumb, finger, or pacifier. When a pacifier gets dipped in sweet foods like honey, sugar, and sweetened juice, it can cause cavities.

Tooth decay can also start when saliva with cavity-causing bacteria is passed from the mother or caregiver to the baby. Also, when either of them puts a baby’s spoon or pacifier in their mouth, the bacteria can be passed on to the baby.