A Guide to Your Child’s Dental Development Stages

All youngsters go through innumerable physical milestones until they hit 18. But when it comes to their dental development, kids experience only four landmarks. Observing those progressive indicators is important to your child’s lifelong dental health. 

The office of Tiny Tooth Pediatric Dentistry makes children feel at ease. Our specialized expertise offers care that’s tailored to the unique dental needs of infants, children and young teens. We use kid-friendly techniques and explain procedures in an age-appropriate manner.

1. Even before they start breaking through his (or her) gums, his baby teeth are forming in his jaw. And when the first one or two erupt—usually between 4 and 7 months old—they are the two bottom front teeth (the central incisors). Bring your child to a pedodontist as soon as his first tooth debuts. And be aware of the importance of those primary teeth. One of their many imperative “duties” is to hold space for his permanent teeth. 
2. Protect all of his baby teeth because they are imperative to the proper development of his jaw. His pedodontist will detect any early problems and abnormalities. Support his brushing and flossing. Oversee his thumbsucking and uses of a pacifier and baby bottle, as they can negatively impact the proper development of his teeth and jaws. Try weaning him off them when he reaches age 2, and definitely before 4.
3. Mixed dentition means he simultaneously has baby and permanent teeth. This is when crowding and jaw malocclusions can become evident. His pedodontist will treat his conditions as needed. The pedodontist may even refer you to an orthodontist for an early evaluation.
4. When all of his adult teeth are in, he might be wearing braces or just completed orthodontic treatment. He must be told how to prevent tooth decay while wearing braces and, if he must wear a retainer, be diligent about its use and care. Also, some or all of his wisdom teeth may require extraction. 

Tiny Tooth Pediatric Dentistry works closely with parents to provide them with education and guidance that supports their child’s dental health journey at home. With flexible appointments and engaging activities in our office, we make dental care easy and enjoyable for families. Please contact us today for an appointment.