First Teeth

Q. My child has just turned one but only has four teeth. Isn't taking her to the dentist now a waste of time and money? Is it ok to wait till she has more teeth?

A. A visit to your dentist at this stage of your baby's dental development is mostly for you to gain individual advice which will help your child to avoid dental decay.

Your baby's first teeth (known as primary teeth) are just as important as their permanent teeth. They help your child to learn to chew, speak properly and most importantly, these teeth reserve the space in your child's gums for the eruption of their permanent teeth.

As soon as your baby develops their first tooth, they are at risk of dental decay, which is known as Early Childhood Caries (ECC). Your child's first visit to the dentist should take place 6 months from the time their first tooth appears or by their first birthday.

Q. How do I know when my daughter is teething, and what should I do when this happens?

A.  The appearance of your baby's first teeth (known as primary teeth) is commonly called ‘teething'. Many babies experience some discomfort during this time. Most babies are irritable when new teeth break through their gums. To help relieve the discomfort you can:

• Wash your hands and gently rub your baby's gums with a clean finger
• Give your baby a teething ring or wet washcloth to bite. Teething rings can be chilled in the refrigerator before being used to help manage gum swelling and pain. (Do not put teething rings in the freezer)
  
• Give your baby non-sweetened rusks to chew on

Signs and symptoms may appear and disappear over several days. Ask your dentist or pharmacist for advice before using any pain relief specifically created for babies and toddlers. Never give aspirin to a baby or young child.