Infant and Toddler Dental Care in Casa Grande, AZ

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends seeing children soon after their first teeth appear, and by their first birthday at the latest. The American Dental Association (ADA) agrees. These simple exams help your child get used to the dentist and make sure oral development is off to a good start. You are welcome to come in sooner if you notice a problem with a tooth.

The dentist gently looks at your baby's teeth, gums, jaw and bite. The team may also gently clean the teeth, depending on how old your baby is and how many teeth have come in. We discuss whether X-rays are needed, as well as brushing, fluoride, nutrition and teething. Our FAQ page has more on baby teeth.

Babies are born with all 20 baby teeth already in the jaw. Around 6 months of age the first teeth usually break through the gums, most often the lower front teeth, and most children have all 20 by about age 3. Teeth that come in earlier or later than average are not a reason to worry, because every child is different. If you have a concern, mention it at the visit.

• Before teeth appear, wipe the gums after feedings with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze pad.
• Once the first tooth appears, brush it in the morning and at bedtime with a soft, small-headed toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice.
• Keep to a smear of toothpaste until age 3. From ages 3 to 6, use a pea-sized amount and help your child spit rather than swallow.
• Start flossing once two teeth touch.

Milk, formula, juice and other sugary liquids that sit on the teeth for long periods, especially overnight, can cause severe decay. Dentists call it baby bottle tooth decay, nursing decay or early childhood cavities. To help prevent it:

• Offer only water in a bedtime bottle.
• Try to avoid nursing your child to sleep.
• Brush the teeth as soon as they come in, and see a pediatric dentist regularly so the teeth and gums are checked.
• Ask us or your pediatrician if you have questions about night-time feeding.

Baby teeth are worth protecting. They help children chew, speak clearly and hold space for the permanent teeth.

Toddler visits help your child get comfortable at the dentist. Most children outgrow thumb sucking and pacifier habits on their own, usually between ages 2 and 4. If a habit continues, we will bring it up with you.

For the step-by-step walkthrough of a first visit, tips for nervous kids and the full list of what to bring, see our new patient page.