A Timeline for Your Child’s Dental Care

October 26, 2023 ABC Children's Dentistry

If you are trying to establish a lifelong timeline for your child’s dental care, you are not alone.  Most parents struggle at some point with understanding just when they should be on the lookout for certain stages of dental development, and how they should resolve any problems that arise during these stages.  Here is a handy guide to help you think about your child’s progress from infant to adult in terms of his or her dental growth.  Remember, all children are different, so these stages are approximate!

Birth to two years:  From birth, your child’s “baby teeth” or “milk teeth” are hiding under the gums, waiting to make their appearance.  Most parents remember the exciting day when baby’s first tooth pokes through!  Appearance of new teeth, or eruption, can occur any time after about three months of age, with six to seven months being average for a first tooth.  If your child’s first tooth has not appeared by 18 months of age, speak to your doctor–it could be considered a sign of something to check out.  However, some children’s teeth are simply slower to erupt–and often when they are, they sprout several almost at once!

The emergence of a first tooth means it is time for a first visit to the dentist, but even before that you can be establishing good hygiene habits.  Never put babies to bed with a bottle, especially one filled with milk or juice; holding a bottle in the mouth for a prolonged period can cause bacteria to form on gums and teeth.  Similarly, stop nursing once the baby goes to sleep and let him or her snuggle instead.  Gently wipe the infant’s teeth and gums with a clean, damp cloth if needed to clear away food debris as they start eating solid food.

Three to six years:  During this time, your child should have all of his or her “baby teeth” and should be learning good brushing habits.  There are many ways toHere is a handy guide to help you think about your child’s progress from infant to adult in terms of his or her dental growth.  ld’s appointment!