Watching your child grow and develop is one of life’s greatest joys, and along with all the exciting firsts, like their first word and first steps, there are important oral milestones to keep an eye on.
Here’s our guide to what you can expect at each stage of your child’s growth and how to support their dental health along the way:
Infant Stage (0-12 Months)
First Tooth Eruption
Your baby’s first tooth will likely appear around six months, although it can happen earlier or later. This milestone is both exciting and challenging, as teething can cause some discomfort. To soothe your baby’s gums, gently rub them with a clean finger or a cool teething ring.
Oral Care Begins
Even before the first tooth appears, it’s important to start good oral hygiene habits. Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once the first tooth emerges, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste to keep it clean.
Toddler Stage (1-3 Years)
All Primary Teeth Erupt
By the age of 3, most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth. These teeth are crucial for chewing, speaking and holding space for permanent teeth. Regular dental check-ups with their dentist should start by the age of 1 to ensure your child’s teeth are developing correctly.
Establishing a Routine
Encourage your toddler to brush their teeth twice a day using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Make brushing fun by using a toothbrush with their favourite character and playing a two-minute song to time the brushing.
Preschool Stage (3-5 Years)
Maintaining Healthy Habits
As your child grows, continue to reinforce good oral hygiene habits. Supervise their brushing to ensure they’re doing it correctly and teach them to spit out the toothpaste rather than swallow it.
Healthy Diet Choices
A balanced diet is essential for healthy teeth. Limit sugary snacks and drinks and encourage fruits, vegetables, and dairy products that are good for dental health. Lots of water will keep their mouth hydrated and rinse away food particles.
School Age (6-12 Years)
Losing Primary Teeth
Your child will start to lose their primary teeth around age 6, making way for their permanent teeth. This process continues into early adolescence. Introduce the tooth fairy to celebrate these milestones and make the experience positive and exciting for your child!
First Orthodontic Evaluation
Around age 7, it’s a good idea to have an orthodontic evaluation. Early assessment can identify any potential issues with the alignment of your child’s teeth and jaw, allowing for timely intervention if necessary.
Teenage Years (13-19 Years)
Wisdom Teeth
Between ages 17 and 21, your child may develop wisdom teeth. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor their development and decide if removal is necessary. Wisdom teeth can sometimes cause crowding or become impacted, which may require extraction. This can also cause the tooth the become infected, which will need treatment.
Independence in Oral Care
At this age, teenagers should be taking full responsibility for their oral hygiene. Encourage them to continue brushing twice a day and flossing daily to avoid cavities and dental fillings.
We’re Here for You Every Step of the Way
At the Family Dental Clinic, we know that each child is unique and may reach these milestones at different times – so we’re here to provide comprehensive care tailored to your child’s exact needs. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can ensure your child grows up with a healthy, confident smile.
For trusted dental care you can rely on, click here or call 01243 771171 to schedule an appointment at our Chichester dental clinic.