Pediatric Dentistry at it's Best!

When will my baby's teeth come in?

Teeth begin forming in your baby even before birth. Here is when you can expect to begin seeing them: • Central incisor (front two upper and bottom teeth): 6-12 months • Lateral incisor(the two teeth flanking the upper and bottom front two teeth): 9-16 months • Canines (pointy teeth in the upper jaw): 16-23 months • First molars (upper and bottom back teeth): 13-19 months • Second molars (upper and bottom back teeth): 22-33 months All 20 primary teeth — also called baby teeth — are present in the jawbones at birth. The lower two front teeth are usually the first to erupt. This most often occurs somewhere around 6 months after birth. Do not be concerned if your baby is a little late. The numbers here are only an average. By age 3, all 20 primary teeth should be present.

What is the relationship between enamel, fluoride and good dental health?

Enamel, the hardest substance in the body, is the outermost layer of the tooth and protects the tooth from decay and cavities. Fluoride, a naturally occurring substance, can strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Some sources of fluoride that help prevent cavities are fluoridated drinking water, fluoride-containing toothpastes and fluoride mouth rinses. Your dentist or physician may recommend or prescribe additional fluoride treatments for your child's dental health. Be sure to follow his/her instructions. Too much fluoride can change the structure of tooth enamel, resulting in discoloration.

read more...