The first baby teeth that come into the mouth are the two bottom front teeth.  This typically occurs when your child is about 6 to 8 months old.  Usually, the next teeth to appear will be the 4 upper front teeth and then the remainder of your child’s teeth will appear every so often. They will generally appear in pairs along the sides of the jaw until the child is about 2 1/2 years old. 

By the time a child reaches 2 to 2 1/2 years old, all 20 of the baby teeth should be present. Then, between the ages of 5 and 6, your child’s first permanent teeth will begin to erupt. Some of the permanent teeth replace baby teeth and some do not.  Parental warning: Do not be alarmed if some teeth are a few months early or late, since all children are different.

A child’s first [regular] dental visit is typically just after his/her first birthday.  This first dental visit is usually short and involves limited treatment.  We commonly ask for the parent/guardian to sit in the dental chair and hold their child during this examination.  But do not be surprised or alarmed if it is suggested that you wait in the reception area for a brief part of the visit so that a relationship can be built among your child, Dr. Doodes and his staff.  We want your child’s visits with us to be fun and educational.

As your child ages, we will suggest a more thorough examination of his/her teeth and gums.  X-rays may be taken to reveal decay or check on the progress of permanent teeth under the gums, if necessary.  We clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay.  Finally, and most important of all, we will review with you  how to clean and care for your child’s teeth as well as discuss what treatment may be necessary for the future.