5 questions about care for early teeth

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on March 25, 2010 at 12:01 AM

Dr. Nancy Rajchel.jpgView full sizeDr. Nancy RajchelNANCY RAJCHEL
Pediatric dentist
Company: Kearns, Ashby, Rajchel & Kearns, D.D.S.
Years in Field: 20+

Q: At what age do babies begin getting teeth? And which teeth do they get first? How long does it take before all of the teeth come in?

A: Most babies begin cutting teeth between 6 and 9 months of age. The first teeth to erupt are the two lower front teeth, and most children have all of the primary, or baby, teeth by the time they are 3 years old.

Q: What steps do parents need to take to protect their baby’s oral health?

A: Parents should never let their child fall asleep while drinking a bottle or nursing, as this can lead to early childhood caries, or decay. Any liquid — breast milk, formula, cow’s milk, juice, etc. — except water can cause the teeth to decay. A child’s teeth should be brushed twice a day, after breakfast and again before bedtime.

Q: When do you need to start brushing your baby’s teeth?

A: Parents should begin brushing a baby’s teeth as soon as they are present in the mouth. Wiping the teeth with a wash cloth is an effective way to clean a very young baby’s teeth.

Q: Should toothpaste be used?

A: Until a child can expectorate, or spit, effectively, toddler toothpaste — which is not fluoridated — should be used. Swallowing fluoridated toothpaste can lead to fluorosis (abnormal enamel formation) of the permanent teeth.

Q: At what age should children be taught to brush their own teeth? What are some tips for teaching your child to brush their teeth?

A: Children should have help brushing their teeth until approximately age 8. The child can brush their own teeth and then have an adult go back over the teeth to make sure all teeth are thoroughly cleaned.

An adult should also floss the child’s teeth once a day, as the only way to clean surfaces between the teeth is by flossing.

Children should be taught to brush for a full two minutes. Timing can be achieved using an egg timer or music.

Interview conducted via e-mail by Patriot-News staff.