Baby's first teeth:
Usually, the front four teeth begin to appear when the baby is between 6 to 12 months. Some babies experience sore or tender gums while teething. Gently rubbing the child's gums with a clean finger or wet gauze can be soothing. A clean teething ring may also help. Contrary to common belief, fever is not normal while teething. If a fever is present, call your physician.

Most children have a full set of 20 primary (baby) teeth by age 3. Primary teeth are as important as permanent teeth – for chewing, speaking, and appearance. They also help "hold" space in the jaws for the permanent teeth.

Tooth Decay:
Tooth decay can appear as soon as the teeth appear. Decay in primary teeth can damage erupting permanent teeth. When sugar and starch from food or drinks combine with plaque (a film of bacteria), an acid is produced that attacks tooth enamel. This can eventually result in a cavity. Therefore, limiting snacks and sweet drinks will reduce the possibility of cavities. Select foods from the five food groups for a balanced diet when a between-meal snack is needed.

Diet:
A good diet is essential for a child's growth and development. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones, and soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. Various factors can determine how foods affect a child's teeth. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decay. How long food remains in the mouth also plays a role. For example, hard candy and breath mints stay in the mouth a long time, causing longer acid attacks on the tooth enamel.

Brushing and Flossing:
Brushing and flossing help remove harmful plaque bacteria. A child-size brush with soft, rounded bristles is recommended. Check your child's toothbrush often and replace it when it is worn. Begin daily brushing as soon as the first tooth erupts. A pea-size amount of toothpaste can be used after the child is old enough not to swallow it. By age 4 or 5 until about age 7, children should be able to brush their own teeth with supervision.

Flossing, however, is a more difficult skill to master. As soon as the spaces close between the teeth, begin flossing the child's teeth until they can do it alone.

Sealing Out Decay:
A sealant is a clear plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the permanent back teeth (premolars and molars), where decay occurs most often. Pits and fissures are depressions and grooves in the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They are difficult to keep clean because toothbrush bristles can not reach into them. The sealant forms a thin covering that keeps out plaque and food and decreases the risk of tooth decay. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants usually last several years before a reapplication is needed.

Dental Visits:
Regular dental visits are crucial to maintaining a healthy smile. Take your child to see the dentist by his or her first birthday. Although this may seem early, the dentist can explain how the child's teeth should be cleaned at home, how diet and eating habits affect teeth, and examine for tooth decay.