Many people do not even begin thinking about their baby's teeth until the teeth begin to push their way through the gums. Teeth first appear in the mouth about 5 to 7 months after the baby is born. At the time of birth, the crowns of the primary teeth (baby teeth) are almost complete and the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars are forming. The first teeth to appear are usually the two front teeth on the lower jaw followed 4 to 8 weeks later by the four upper front teeth. The molars are the last to appear. Most children will have all 20 of their primary teeth by age 3. Most children will start losing their primary teeth between ages 6 and 8 years. These teeth are replaced by permanent teeth starting around age 5 or 6.

An infant is dependent on its parents for dental care. The parents teach and model the importance of regular dental care. Dental care should begin during the first few days after birth. Gently clean the baby's gums with a wet cloth after every feeding. Most babies younger than one year cannot tolerate a brush in their mouths. Once the baby teeth begin to appear, both the baby's gums and teeth should be wiped with a damp washcloth or gauze to remove plaque.

Never allow your baby to fall asleep with a bottle. Too frequent use of a bottle or sleeping with a bottle can cause tooth decay. Baby bottle tooth decay is one problem that can happen as soon as teeth appear in the mouth. It occurs when the infant nurses continuously from a bottle of milk, formula, sugar water, or juice while awake or during sleep. This allows acids to build up and attack the teeth.

By age 2, teeth should be brushed at least once a day. Use a soft, multitufted nylon-bristle brush and a little toothpaste. Ask your doctor about fluoride rinses for your child. Fluoride requirements vary from child to child and community to community.

About 8 percent of 2 year olds have one or more cavities. By age 3, the number increases to nearly 60 percent. It is important to teach children to brush carefully after every meal.

When baby teeth are lost too early due to decay or infection, other primary teeth may shift to fill the gap. The shifting may not leave room for the permanent teeth. This usually causes the teeth to come in crooked requiring future orthodontic care. The first visit to the dentist should be when all 20 of the primary teeth are in or if there are signs of decay or infection.

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