Pediatric Dentistry info bites: Taking care of your baby's teeth

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Aixa Torres-Ramirez
  • 48th Dental Squadron, pediatric dentistry
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Providing proper care and oral hygiene to your baby's teeth can mean a lifetime of good oral health for them.

Primary teeth come into the mouth when a baby is between 6 and 7 months of age, though it can occur as early as birth and in some instances be a little bit delayed.

We identify the teeth by names. Anterior teeth are called incisors. Canines and those in the back part of the mouth are called molars.

Normally the first teeth to erupt are the lower central incisor, which is completed around 3 years of age and includes 20 teeth.

As baby teeth erupt, many children experience sore gums and general discomfort. Some signs that eruption is causing discomfort include crankiness, lack of appetite, excessive drooling, restless behavior, pink or red cheeks, coughing, upset stomach and chewing or sucking fingers or toys.

If your child is experiencing discomfort, a cold, wet cloth to suck on can soothe the gums. There are also teething accessories and toys your child can chew to relieve discomfort.

Primary teeth begin to loosen and fall out around 5 or 6 years of age, because the permanent teeth located inside the bone begin to push them out.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first dental visit to be 6 months after the eruption of the first primary teeth normally between 12 and 18 months of age.

At RAF Lakenheath we start scheduling exam appointments at 15 months of age. However, if you think there is a problem with your child's mouth before 15 months of age, call and schedule a sick call appointment.

Some common problems identified include tooth decay, teething limitations, gum problems and prolonged thumb sucking. The dentist can also give an orientation on diet and nutrition to promote and ensure your baby has good oral health.

This is the perfect time for the dentist to carefully examine the development of your child's mouth and identify any potential problems. We can provide or recommend necessary preventive care to safeguard against these problems.