Cosmetic Dentist in Fairhope AL

Baby Teeth Matter

A baby has 20 primary teeth that are present in the jaw at birth but don’t begin to appear until the baby is between 6 months and 1 year.  Most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the time they turn 3 years old.  There are baby teeth eruption charts that will show the order in which teeth break through and what ages you can expect certain teeth to appear.  All children are different, but typically the first teeth to come in are located in the top and bottom front of their tiny mouths.

When the teeth first come in, you can expect them to have sore or tender gums.  You can gently rub your child’s gums with a clean finger, a small and cool spoon, or a wet gauze pad.  Some babies love a teething ring to chew on as well.  If your child still is experiencing pain and seems to be a bit cranky, consult your dentist or physician. Cosmetic Dentist in Fairhope AL

Your baby’s teeth are very important to their health and development.  They help with chewing, speaking, and smiling.  They also hold the space in the jaws for the permanent teeth that are growing underneath the gums.  If a baby loses a tooth too early, the permanent teeth can drift into that space and make it difficult for the other adult teeth to find room when they are ready to come in.  When this happens, expect some crooked or crowded teeth.

This is why it is so important to start infants off with good oral care.  It allows them to protect their teeth for decades to come.  Cosmetic Dentist in Fairhope AL

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