Pediatric Dentistry with a Mother's Touch
Board-Certified Pediatric DentistVisit Our Website
Board-Certified Pediatric DentistVisit Our Website
01
Oct
What Should Parents Know About Baby Teeth Eruption?
Pediatric dentists do more than just clean your child’s teeth—they provide valuable guidance to parents on their child’s oral health, including teething. Want to learn more about baby teething? Drs. Sona Isharani and Shima Ghattan at Triad Dentistry are here to assist. Get the information you need about your little one’s baby teeth to ensure their healthy development.
When do baby teeth erupt?
Many babies have 20 teeth at birth; however, they are trapped beneath the gums. There’s a wide range of variability about when the first tooth erupts because some babies may not have their first tooth by age one. However, most babies develop their first tooth at six months. Typically, the lower front teeth are the first to appear, and most children develop all teeth by age 3.
Scheduling a dental visit within six months of your child’s first tooth eruption, but no later than their first birthday, allows the dentist to monitor tooth development and address any potential issues early.
Does baby teeth eruption cause pain?
Usually, teething doesn’t cause pain, but parents can tell when these little teeth are about to come in. Often, there may be swelling or redness in the gums, and the baby may drool more than usual. Although teething can cause fussiness in babies, one thing it won’t cause is fever. Your baby’s temperature may rise slightly, but anything over 38 degrees (100.4 Fahrenheit) could indicate an infection needing further treatment.
How can I relieve teething discomfort?
Before the eruption, the uneven edges of teeth push against the gums, and the baby may chew on toys, hands, and other objects to soothe the discomfort. Putting pressure or massaging the gums helps provide relief, so ensure you give your baby clean and safe items to chew on.
The following can help with tooth eruption discomfort:
- Provide your baby with cold (not frozen) tooth rings
- A clean, damp washcloth to chew on
- Gently massage the gums with a clean finger
- Chilled foods like yogurt can help if you’ve introduced your child to solid foods
- Engage your child in distraction activities
- Over-the-counter pain relievers for severe discomfort
Babies can develop cavities when the first tooth appears, so optimal oral hygiene is essential. Once the first tooth erupts, clean it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean water. When your baby is age two, you can use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to clean their teeth but encourage them to spit. If your child is at risk of tooth decay, complement at-home oral hygiene with dental sealants or fluoride treatments.
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Why do baby teeth matter?
Although baby teeth will eventually fall out to make way for permanent teeth, they are crucial in your child’s overall oral development. Baby teeth aid in speech development and are vital in chewing food. Crucially, these primary teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth, ensuring they are properly aligned. If baby teeth are lost prematurely, it can cause spacing issues, leading to crowding or misalignment of the adult teeth. Healthy baby teeth set the foundation for lasting, healthy smiles.
Do you need pediatric dentistry?
Triad Dentistry is the premier destination for children’s dentistry in Greensboro, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. Step up your child’s dental care by scheduling an appointment with our team. Call (336) 383-1482 to reserve an appointment.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
