Tooth Eruption

Although most parents eagerly await their child’s first tooth, the actual teething and tooth eruption process can cause quite a bit of distress for both the child and the parents! As a children’s dental office serving the Greater Inland Empire, we understand the concern and would like to shed some light on this important and exciting milestone. Do you know someone with questions about tooth eruption or children’s dental issues? Be sure to share this article!

When Does Teething Start?

Most babies start teething between 3 and 12 months, though it can begin sooner or later. If tooth eruption seems delayed, you can take your child to the dentist for an evaluation. However, even late tooth eruption is not usually a cause for concern.

Which Teeth Come First?

In most cases, the lower front teeth and then the top front teeth are the first to appear. Most children will have all of their baby teeth by the age of three.

How Do I Soothe Teething Pain?

To soothe teething pain, run your clean finger along the gums or use a cold washcloth. Despite widespread belief, using teething gels is not advisable The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns against the use of benzocaine for children younger than two since it has been known to cause methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious disorder that prevents hemoglobin from releasing oxygen to the body. It is also important to avoid teething tablets and necklaces which pose a choking hazard, as well as liquid-filled teething rings and toys as sharp baby teeth can puncture these products, releasing possibly damaging chemicals into your child’s mouth.

Caring for Primary Teeth

Many parents mistakenly believe that primary teeth do not need the same care as permanent teeth. Primary teeth need care from the moment they appear because they play an important role in the health and placement of permanent teeth, and impact speech development. Be sure to take your child to visit the dentist soon after the first tooth appears.

What About Permanent Teeth?

Permanent teeth begin to emerge between the ages of 5 and 7, replacing the primary teeth. Most children have 28 of their permanent teeth by age 13 years. These include:

• Four central incisors
• Four lateral incisors
• Eight premolars
• Four canines
• Eight molars

The last of the permanent teeth to make their appearance are wisdom teeth. They usually begin their eruption between 17 and 21 years of age.

Lil Smile Builders is a children’s dental office located in San Bernardino, California. As children’s dentists, the Lil Smile Builders team serve children from all over the Inland Empire. For more information about children’s dentistry or to set up an appointment, call Lil Smile Builders today! 951-977-9992