As a new parent, teething is a major milestone. It’s also when most moms and dads really start thinking about their child’s dental care needs, leading to numerous questions about their oral hygiene and well-being. Here are the answers to the most common ones.

What You Should Know About Teething

When should teething start, and what are the signs?

A baby’s first tooth should start erupting sometime after 6 months but before they’re 1 year old, though some children may experience teething a little sooner or later. You can tell if your child has started teething if they’re unusually fussy and keep putting items in their mouth to bite down on. Other symptoms include trouble sleeping, more drool than usual, and less desire to eat. 

How do I care for the erupting teeth?

Keep your child’s gums clean by gently wiping them with a soft, dampened rag. When a tooth erupts, it’s time to start practicing proper dental care so that they get used to oral hygiene at a very young age.

Use a child-sized, soft-bristled brush and a tiny amount of toothpaste, roughly the size of a grain of rice. Brush their tooth or teeth twice every day.

How can I alleviate their discomfort?

Your child’s gums will be sensitive and sore while they’re teething. To soothe them, try rubbing their gums with a clean finger, a cold spoon, or a wet piece of gauze. You can also offer them clean teething rings and toys that have been chilled, as the cold temperature helps ease some of the ache. Avoid numbing products, such as those that contain lidocaine or benzocaine, because of the risk of complications unless otherwise instructed by your child’s doctor or dentist.

Does teething mean I need to take them to a dentist?

As soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, it’s time to schedule an appointment with their chosen pediatric dentist. At the latest, your child should have their first visit by the time they turn 1.

The dentist will check the tooth to make sure it’s coming in correctly, get to know your child, advise you on proper dental practices for them, and discuss cavity prevention. It’s also an ideal time to ask any questions you have about your child’s teeth, teething process, or dental needs.

Is it time for your child’s first dental care appointment? Alaska Dentistry for Kids would love to make it a positive experience. With over 25 years of experience in Anchorage, their dentist specializes in oral care for kids of all ages, with comprehensive services that emphasize prevention and cater to nervous and special needs patients. Their office is designed to be kid-friendly and houses a massive stuffed animal collection. Learn more about their services online and call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an appointment.