A child’s growth is full of milestones, and their smile is no exception. Your little one will start teething and eventually develop a full set of adult teeth. Having the right children’s dentist on your side will help each change go smoothly. Here are just some of the oral health landmarks to look forward to.

What Dental Milestones Will Your Kids Experience?

1. First Tooth

Babies start teething as early as three months, and their first tooth generally emerges through the gums at about six months. During this time, you might start introducing your baby to some solid foods.

This is also the time to schedule their first dentist appointment. Most professionals will want to see your little one when their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday.

2. First Lost Tooth

Losing their first tooth is often an exciting moment for kids since it means the Tooth Fairy will be visiting. You can expect your child to start losing teeth around age 6. The lower front teeth are generally the first to fall out.

Keep in mind that your child may experience some discomfort as their adult teeth emerge, but you should contact your children’s dentist with any concerns. 

3. Braces

Once your child loses all or most of their baby teeth, you might start to notice some bite or spacing issues with their adult teeth. Your children’s dentist will likely recommend braces if this is the case. Many children get braces during their preteen years, but timelines differ for everyone. Orthodontic treatment lasts about two years on average.

4. Wisdom Teeth

Your child’s wisdom teeth will likely be the last to grow in. This generally happens during the late teens or early twenties. Your family dentist will monitor the position of the wisdom teeth to determine whether removal is necessary. This may be the case if your child’s mouth doesn’t have space for the wisdom teeth or they’re impacted. 

The team at Alaska Dentistry for Kids is proud to be part of your child’s oral development at every stage. Located in Anchorage, this team will care for your child’s teeth from their teething months through their first wisdom teeth. Children’s dentist Dr. Chris Coplin and his staff offer routine cleanings, special needs dentistry, and emergency services in a comfortable office environment. This compassionate team will ensure your family receives quality information and care to maintain healthy smiles for life. Visit them online to view a full list of their services or call (907) 274-2525 to make an appointment for your child.