Health Topics for Child Health and Development

UI Children's Hospital

UI Family Care Centers

Divisions Within the Department of Pediatrics

Iowa Registry for Congenital and Inherited Disorders

Baby teeth: are they important?

Many people do not even begin thinking about their baby's teeth until the teeth begin to push their way through the gums. Teeth first appear in the mouth about 5 to 7 months after the baby is born. At the time of birth, the crowns of the primary teeth (baby teeth) are almost complete and the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars are forming.

The first teeth to appear are usually the two front teeth on the lower jaw, followed 4 to 8 weeks later by the four upper front teeth. The molars are the last to appear. Most children will have all 20 of their "baby," or primary, teeth by age 3. Most children will start losing their primary teeth between ages 5 and 6 years. These teeth are replaced by permanent teeth starting around age 6 or 8.

An infant is dependent on his or her parents for dental care. The parents teach and model the importance of regular dental care. Dental care should begin during the first few days after birth. Gently clean the baby's gums with a wet cloth after every feeding. Most babies younger than one year cannot tolerate a brush in their mouths. Once the baby teeth begin to appear teeth should be brushed at least once a day. Use a soft, multi-tufted nylon-bristle brush and very little toothpaste. Too much fluoride from toothpaste can stain the teeth. Fluoride requirements vary from child to child. Ask your doctor about fluoride rinses for your child.

Never allow your baby to fall asleep with a bottle. Baby bottle tooth decay is one problem that can happen as soon as teeth appear in the mouth. When the infant sucks continuously from a bottle of milk, formula, sugar water, or juice while awake or during sleep, acids build up and attack the teeth.

Take your child to the dentist within 6 months of the first baby tooth and no later than their first birthday. About 8 percent of 2- year-olds have one or more cavities and by age 3 the number increases to nearly 60 percent. It is important to teach children to brush carefully after every meal.

Early loss of baby teeth due to decay or infection, may cause primary teeth to shift to fill the gap. This shifting may not leave room for the permanent teeth, and cause the teeth to come in crooked, requiring future orthodontic care.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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