From their first gummy smile to their senior portraits, your child’s smile undergoes quite a transformation throughout the years. And knowing what to expect along the way can help keep their teeth and gums in tip-top shape during the journey! If you are unsure when their baby teeth in Katy should emerge and fall out, then read on.
The Evolution of Your Child’s Smile
When to Expect Their Primary (aka “Baby”) Teeth
Your child’s gummy smile lights up your world in a way you never knew was possible, but by six months of age, you will begin to see their first tooth emerging. Typically, the first teeth to surface are the two center bottom ones, followed by the top four front teeth. From there, the remaining teeth will fill in one by one until they have all 20 (which usually happens by the time they are 2.5 or 3 years old).
Losing Their Baby Teeth and Growing Their Permanent Set
Although each child is different, they usually lose their first tooth in the early elementary years (around 6 or 7 years of age). Often, children lose their teeth in the same order they grow in, which means their front ones are the first to go! It is especially important that they visit their dentist frequently during this stage so their dental team can monitor their changing mouth, ensure their teeth are growing correctly, and address any red flags in the initial stages. By the time they are 13, their permanent set is usually completely grown in, with the exception of their wisdom teeth.
The Emergence of Wisdom Teeth
Between the ages of 17 and 22, your child can expect to feel some growing pains as their wisdom teeth come in. For some, the new set of molars grows in straight, leading to no complications or discomfort. However, that is rarely the case. In fact, 90% of Americans have at least one impacted tooth and need to have their wisdom teeth removed!
6 Tips for Keeping Their Oral Health in Pristine Condition
From their first tooth to their last molar, it is important to instill good oral habits. Otherwise, your child can become vulnerable to a number of dental issues, including tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. To keep their teeth and gums in pristine condition, make sure they:
- Brush their teeth for two minutes twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily.
- Use mouthwash regularly.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat a nutrient-dense diet.
- Limit sugary foods and beverages, like soda and candy.
How Their Dentist Can Help
Before their first tooth emerges, a pediatric dentist can monitor the condition of your child’s gums and provide guidance on how to properly clean their mouth. From there, they can share recommendations on kid-friendly products that make taking care of their teeth fun and help stop bad oral habits that arise (like thumb sucking or nail-biting). At each stage of your child’s life, they can provide dental exams, conduct professional cleanings, and ensure that their oral health remains in tip-top shape. That way, they can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come!
About the Author
Since graduating Magna Cum Laude from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Adeel Khan has become a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Today, he uses his nearly 10 years of hands-on experience, patient-centered approach to care, and genuine passion for his craft to help children of all ages achieve pristine oral health. If you are looking for a pediatric dentist in Katy, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 832-789-8348.