Baby and Toddler Dental Care: A Complete Guide for Parents

Caring for your baby or toddler's teeth from the very beginning sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. Here is everything you need to know about dental care for your little one.

When Do Baby Teeth Appear?

Most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 10 months of age, although it can vary widely. The two bottom front teeth (central incisors) usually appear first, followed by the top front teeth. By age three, most children have a full set of 20 primary (baby) teeth.

Teething Tips

Teething can be uncomfortable for babies. To help soothe sore gums:

• Gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger
• Offer a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring
• Use a damp, clean cloth for your baby to chew on
• Speak to your health visitor or pharmacist about teething gels if needed

When to Start Brushing

Start cleaning your baby's mouth even before teeth appear. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe your baby's gums after feedings. As soon as the first tooth appears, start brushing with a soft infant toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (no larger than a grain of rice). Age 0-18 months: Clean teeth twice a day with a smear of fluoride toothpaste Age 18 months - 3 years: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste Age 3-6 years: Continue with a pea-sized amount, supervise brushing, and encourage spitting out excess toothpaste

Diet and Tooth Decay

What your child eats and drinks has a significant impact on their dental health:

• Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice — this can cause severe tooth decay
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks to mealtimes only
• Encourage water as the main drink between meals
• Avoid sticky, sugary foods like dried fruit and sweets

Your Child's First Dental Visit

The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommends children visit the dentist by age one, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. At M Dental, we make children's first visits fun and gentle. Children's examinations start from just £80, including fluoride treatment and oral health advice.

Children's Dentistry at M Dental

M Dental welcomes children of all ages at both our Canada Water (SE16) and Greenwich (SE10) clinics. Call 0204 518 8554 (Canada Water) or 0204 541 8517 (Greenwich) to book your child's first appointment.