{"id":83,"date":"2026-10-22T16:30:22","date_gmt":"2026-10-22T16:30:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.doctorpike.com\/blog\/?p=83"},"modified":"2026-11-03T16:32:25","modified_gmt":"2026-11-03T16:32:25","slug":"4-facts-about-baby-teeth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.doctorpike.com\/blog\/4-facts-about-baby-teeth\/","title":{"rendered":"4 Facts About Your Baby\u2019s Growing Grin"},"content":{"rendered":"
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For new parents, each milestone your baby reaches can be a nerve-wracking experience. You want their smile to be healthy and strong, but you also want to be sure you\u2019re doing everything correctly, and that they\u2019re on the right track as they develop. When it comes to your little one\u2019s growing grin, it can be hard to understand what\u2019s happening, especially when they can\u2019t tell you themselves. Here are four facts about baby teeth, so you\u2019ll be better informed about how to handle their oral health<\/a> as they get older!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Dental Debuts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Did you know that your baby already had their first set of primary teeth at birth? It\u2019s true! Those precious pearly whites have been there all along, waiting below the gumline until their mouth is ready for its big transition, which cleverly coincides with when they will begin eating solid foods and relying less on breastmilk or formula. In most cases, this will occur between six and 12 months of age; however, it can sometimes be sooner or later. Either way, be prepared to bring them to their first dental checkup and cleaning as soon as their first tooth erupts, or by their first birthday even if they\u2019re still toothless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Introducing Fluoride<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Fluoride is an essential mineral for strengthening tooth enamel and protecting against sensitivity, cavities, and decay. It is often added to public water supplies, can be found in a variety of natural sources like lakes and rivers, and is even present in many of the foods we eat. It is also added to oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At around six months of age, it is safe to begin introducing fluoride to your tot\u2019s diet. The easiest way to do this is to provide them with a bottle of fresh tap water (most bottled water brands don\u2019t add fluoride).  Then, once their first tooth erupts, you can begin brushing it with a fluoridated infant\u2019s toothpaste, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Products to Pass On<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Teething can be a difficult time for the entire family. Between the increased fussiness of your little one and the feelings of helplessness of the parents, it\u2019s a chapter that many people are eager to move past. Thankfully, there are many ways to make this time more comfortable for your child, such as the use of teething rings, gum massages, and allowing them to chew on cool washcloths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, be careful with which products you choose, as some can be dangerous. To that end, be sure to avoid:<\/p>\n\n\n\n