Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean my child's mouth?
- Be prepared! Have a soft, wet cloth (gauze) or facecloth right beside you.
- Hold the child in your arms. Wrap the damp cloth or gauze around your pointer (index) finger.
- Gently wipe the child's gums from back to front, rubbing them and taking away any leftover milk or formula.
- A small wet and soft toothbrush can be used as soon as teeth begin to appear in the child's mouth.
When can I expect my child's baby teeth to come in?
All 20 baby (or primary) teeth should break through (erupt) by the time the child is 2 or 3 years old. Remember every child is different. Some children will get teeth before or after the times you see on this picture.
Why are baby teeth important?
Eating
Strong teeth help to chew and break down food. Once teeth become decayed, chewing can be difficult and painful.
Talking
Teeth play an important role with speech. The tongue uses teeth for positioning and for forming words.
Saving space for adult teeth
Baby teeth hold a space in the mouth for adult teeth. When adult teeth arrive, the baby teeth guide them into the proper spot. Without baby teeth as a guide, the adult teeth could shift into the empty space. This may lead to crowding.
Smiling
Losing teeth too early can have an effect on self esteem.
Can my child clean his own teeth and gums?
If your child can write (not print) his or her name, your child is able to brush their teeth by themselves. If your child can't write his or her name, then your child is not able to properly clean their teeth alone. It is hard for your child to hold and move a toothbrush well enough to reach all areas of his or her mouth. You can help your child to brush his or her teeth.
When can I expect my child's adult teeth to come in?
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