Kids Dental Tips: How to Care for Your Child’s First Teeth
Your baby’s first tooth is a big milestone, and not just for the adorable photo ops. It’s the start of a lifelong journey in dental care, and as a parent (especially a new one), that can come with a lot of questions. When should we start brushing? When should they see a dentist? Is it normal if the teeth look a little… weird?
At Advance Dental Group in Kelowna, we work with families every day to help their little ones grow up with strong, healthy smiles. Our pediatric dentistry services are meant to support both children and parents with helpful, personalized advice. Here are our best tips for navigating those early days of brushing, teething, and learning what’s normal.
Start Early and Keep It Simple
Good oral healthcare begins for your baby’s mouth before their first tooth even appears. You can use a soft, damp cloth or infant toothbrush to gently clean their gums each day. This helps prevent bacteria buildup and gets them used to the feeling.
Once that first tooth shows up (usually around 6 months), you can switch to a soft-bristled baby toothbrush. Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. As more teeth come in, brush twice a day and gently floss once any two teeth touch.
Schedule That First Dental Visit
According to the Canadian Dental Association, children should have their first dental visit by age one, or within six months of their first tooth erupting, whichever comes first.
At Advance Dental, we provide a calm and gentle environment for your child’s earliest visits so that they are excited about visiting the dentist. It’s not just about checking for cavities; it’s about helping your child feel safe at the dentist and giving you, as a parent, the tools and information to keep things on track at home.
Make It a Routine, Not a Fight
Let’s be real: brushing a toddler’s teeth isn’t always a peaceful experience. Here are some tips for turning it into a habit rather than a battle:
- Let your child “brush” first, then follow up with a more thorough cleaning.
- Use songs, videos, or brushing apps to make it more engaging.
- Brush your teeth together to lead by example; children will follow your lead, and it can become a chance to show proper technique.
And remember, consistency matters more than perfection.
Common Concerns & FAQs
Is thumb-sucking or pacifier use a problem?
These habits are normal in infants, but prolonged use (especially after age 3) can negatively affect the way teeth and jaws develop. We can offer advice if you’re having trouble helping your child transition away from them.
My child’s teeth look uneven or have white spots. Is that normal?
Some variation in spacing or colour is totally normal in baby teeth, but if you’re concerned, it’s always worth asking. We’re happy to check and explain what’s going on.
Do baby teeth really matter if they’re going to fall out anyway?
Yes! Healthy baby teeth help with chewing, speech development, and keeping space for adult teeth. Cavities in baby teeth can also lead to pain and infection, so they deserve just as much care.
What if my child hates brushing?
You’re not alone. Try making it fun by using rewards or involving them in choosing their own toothbrush or toothpaste (just make sure it’s age-appropriate and contains fluoride). And let us know at your child’s next hygiene appointment, we can help troubleshoot!
A Partner in Your Parenting Journey
Caring for your child’s first teeth can feel like one more thing to learn in a sea of “new parent” responsibilities, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Advance Dental Group, Dr. Macdonnell and our team are here to support you at every stage, from baby teeth to braces and beyond.
Whether it’s a quick question about teething or a gentle first visit to the dental chair, we’re just a phone call away. Let us help your little one build a lifetime of healthy habits—starting with that very first tooth.
Book your child’s first dental visit with Advance Dental today. We’ll make it easy, comforting, and even a little bit fun.