A lifetime of healthy smiles starts early! From your baby’s first tooth to your child’s growing smile, early dental care helps prevent issues before they start and sets the foundation for great oral health.
Parents often have lots of questions about their child’s dental care, and we’re here to help. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns.
Even though they eventually fall out, baby teeth play a big role in your child’s development. They help with chewing, speaking clearly, and guiding permanent teeth into the right position. Keeping them healthy from the start helps ensure a strong, well-aligned adult smile.
The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend bringing your child in by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Early visits allow us to monitor their oral development, prevent cavities, and help them feel comfortable at the dentist.
Good habits start early! Even before teeth come in, wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once teeth appear, use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and gently brush twice a day.
For babies under age 2, a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) is recommended. For children 2–5 years old, a pea-sized amount is enough. Always supervise brushing to ensure they spit out excess toothpaste and clean their teeth effectively.
Thumb sucking and pacifiers are completely normal for infants. However, if the habit continues beyond age 3, it can impact the alignment of their teeth and jaw. If your child has trouble stopping, we can offer gentle guidance.
Just like adults, kids should have a dental checkup every six months. These visits help catch small problems early, prevent cavities, and reinforce good oral hygiene habits.
Putting your child to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, or formula can lead to baby bottle tooth decay. If your little one needs a bottle at bedtime, stick to water. After nursing, a quick rinse with water helps reduce the risk of decay.
Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They help prevent cavities by sealing out food and bacteria from deep grooves. This quick, painless treatment provides years of protection.
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. If your local water supply doesn’t contain fluoride, we may recommend a fluoride treatment or supplement to keep your child’s teeth strong.
A custom mouthguard is the best way to protect your child’s teeth, lips, and jaw during sports. A properly fitted guard helps prevent chipped or knocked-out teeth and even reduces the risk of concussions.
Stay calm and find the tooth. Handle it by the crown (not the root), gently rinse with water (if needed), and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in a glass of milk and call us immediately for emergency care.
Early dental care sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. If you have any concerns about your child’s teeth or need to schedule their first visit, contact our dental office in Hazlet, NJ, today!
