Children's Teeth
Children's teeth begin forming before birth. As early as 4 months,
the first primary, or baby, teeth to
erupt through the gums are the lower central incisors, followed closely
by the upper central incisors. Although all 20 primary teeth usually
appear by age 3, the pace and order of their eruption varies.
Oral care should begin soon after baby's birth. Gums should be cleaned after each feeding. You can begin brushing your child's teeth as soon as they appear.
Permanent teeth begin appearing around age 6, starting with the first molars and lower central incisors. This process continues until approximately age 21.
Adults have 28 permanent teeth, or up to 32 including the third molars (or wisdom teeth).
DENTAL DEVELOPMENT
Always clean your infant's gums after feedings. Wipe gums with a clean, damp cloth or gauze pad. Parents should brush children's teeth daily with a soft wet toothbrush and no more than a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brush at least once daily or as directed by Dr. Becker. Do not swallow - use no more than a pea-sized amount for children under six.
To prevent nursing bottle mouth, if you must give your baby a bottle
at nap or bed time, fill it with plain water-not milk, formula or juice.
Dr. Becker may recommend regular fluoride
treatments to strengthen
enamel and resist decay. Whenever possible, drink fluoridated water
and always use an ADA-accepted fluoridated toothpaste.
Dental sealants can help provide additional protection against cavities
on the chewing surfaces of teeth. The plastic coating is painted on
the grooved chewing surfaces of the back teeth.
Be sure to follow the special home care instructions provided by Dr.
Becker.
