Teething of primary (baby) teeth usually occurs from six months to age 3. Your child’s gums may feel sore when teeth erupt. Many children like a clean chilled teething ring, cool spoon, or cold wet washcloth. Alternatively, you may massage the gums with a small toothbrush and cool water.

Tags: teething, infant, baby teeth

The sooner you start, the easier it is to build this healthy habit. Starting at birth, you can start cleaning your child’s gum with a soft infant toothbrush and water.

Tags: baby teeth

Select a quality toothbrush especially designed for infants. Look for features such as soft-bristles for gentle cleaning, and small brush-head for easier access. Brush all surfaces of your baby’s teeth and gum with water at least once a day at bedtime. Unless your child’s pediatric dentist advises it, do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 2-3. Thorough and regular brushing will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay.

Tags: baby teeth, toothbrush

Primary teeth (or "baby" teeth) are very important for your child’s health. They serve many functions until they are replaced between age of 6 to 12 years old. They help children speak clearly and chew their food. They are an essential part of children’s smile and self-esteem. They also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. If infections (dental caries, or “cavities”) of the primary teeth are left untreated, the infection can cause severe pain and/or spread to the newly erupted permanent teeth. At times, untreated dental infection can spread to other parts of the body and can be life threatening.

Tags: baby teeth