It’s exciting to watch the changes in your little one’s smile. New teeth appearing, baby teeth wiggling, and suddenly you're full of questions. You want to do everything right for our children's oral health, so you need answers to those nagging questions.
Top 10 Questions Parents Ask about Their Child's Teeth
Here are the ten most common questions we hear from Jonesboro parents:
1. When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth appearing.
2. How do I clean my baby's teeth?
Use a soft cloth or infant toothbrush with water. Once multiple teeth appear, use a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
3. When will my child lose their baby teeth?
Most children start losing baby teeth around age 6, typically beginning with the bottom front teeth. The process continues until around age 12.
4. Is thumb sucking harmful?
Occasional thumb sucking is normal, but prolonged sucking beyond age 4-5 can affect tooth alignment and jaw development.
5. When can my child brush independently?
Most children can brush effectively on their own around age 6-8, but dentists recommend supervision until age 10-12.
6. Are cavities in baby teeth serious?
Yes! Untreated cavities can cause pain, infection, and affect the development of permanent teeth underneath.
7. When should my child stop using a bottle or sippy cup?
Transition away from bottles by age 12-15 months and limit sippy cup use to prevent tooth decay from prolonged liquid contact.
8. How much fluoride does my child need?
Children under 3 need a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste; ages 3–6 need a pea-sized amount.
9. What if my child's permanent teeth look yellow?
Permanent teeth naturally appear more yellow than baby teeth due to thicker enamel—this is completely normal.
10. How often should my child see the dentist?
Our dentist typically recommends checkups every six months, though some children may need more frequent visits based on their individual needs.
Expert Guidance for Your Child's Smile
Every child develops differently, and what is normal for one child might be concerning for another. At Anthony Bartels DDS Family Dentistry, we understand your concerns and provide personalized guidance for each child's unique dental situation.
Ready to get your questions answered by a trusted family dentist in Jonesboro, AR? Contact Anthony Bartels DDS Family Dentistry today to schedule your child's dental appointment.