Baby teeth may be small, but they’re just as important as permanent ones when it comes to your child’s development. In fact, these early teeth do way more than you might realize! Understanding how baby teeth work, when they appear, and how to care for them can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here’s a pocket guide to everything you need to know about these small but mighty training teeth.
When Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Most children get their first tooth between 6 and 12 months of age, usually starting with the lower front teeth. From there, new teeth continue to arrive until about age 3. By the time your child’s smile is complete, they’ll have 20 baby teeth—10 on top and 10 on the bottom.
However, this is a general timeline. Every child is different, so don’t worry if your child’s development doesn’t match up with these dates exactly.
What Do Baby Teeth Do?
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they serve several important purposes, like:
- Chewing: They help your child learn to eat a wider variety of foods, eventually transitioning to solids.
- Speaking: Teeth help your child form words properly, developing pronunciation and speech.
- Spacing: Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth, guiding them into their correct positions.
- Smiling: A healthy smile helps children feel happy and confident as they grow.
How Should Baby Teeth Be Cared For?
Your child’s tiny teeth still need care, just like adult ones do, and good habits start early—before any even arrive!
Before your baby’s first tooth, you can clean their gums with a soft, damp cloth. Once the first one arrives, switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice until age 3, then a pea-sized amount after that.
Brush their teeth twice a day and, once they’re old enough, assist them until they develop the coordination to do it themselves.
Flossing should begin as soon as two teeth touch. This removes plaque from places a toothbrush can’t reach, helping prevent cavities.
When Should My Child See a Dentist?
Children should have their first dental visit by age 1 or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits allow dentists to check the development of your little one’s teeth and jaws. They also help your child get comfortable in the dental chair, reducing anxiety and building positive relationships.
Baby teeth may only be around for a few years, but their development, or lack thereof, will stick with them for life. With good habits and regular dental visits, you can help your child grow into a lifetime of confident smiles.
About the Practice
At JB Dental, Dr. Bancroft and Dr. Lim are dedicated to helping families build strong, healthy smiles from the very beginning. With advanced training and a friendly, educational approach, they make every visit comfortable and fun. Call (720) 458-6561 to schedule an appointment for your child with us or visit our website to learn more.