My Baby Just Got Their First Tooth! Now What?

Posted on 9/15/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

So, you’ve spotted a pearly white poking through your little one's gums! Congratulations! The arrival of that first baby tooth is a major milestone. It’s exciting, but it also means it’s time to start thinking about dental care. This may seem early, but establishing good oral hygiene habits from the very beginning is key to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

What To Expect Now

The eruption of that first tooth is usually just the beginning of a whole mouthful of baby teeth to come! Most children will have a full set of 20 baby teeth by the time they are three years old. While the timing can vary quite a bit from child to child, typically the lower front teeth are the first to make an appearance, followed by the upper front teeth. Don’t be alarmed if your baby’s teeth come in a different order, though. Each child develops at their own pace.

Teething can sometimes be uncomfortable for babies. You might notice increased drooling, irritability, and a tendency to gnaw on things. Gentle gum massage with a clean finger or a soft, cool teething ring can often provide relief.

Caring for That First Tooth (and the Gums Around It!)

Even before teeth erupt, it’s important to clean your baby's gums. You can use a soft, damp washcloth or a gauze pad to gently wipe their gums after feedings. This helps remove milk residue and bacteria.

Once that first tooth emerges, switch to a baby toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) to brush the tooth twice a day – once in the morning and once before bedtime. Make sure to brush gently and thoroughly, reaching all surfaces of the tooth.

As more baby teeth come in, continue to use the same technique, gradually increasing the amount of toothpaste to a pea-sized amount around the age of three. Supervise your child while they brush to make sure they are using the right amount of toothpaste and spitting it out afterwards. They may not be able to effectively brush on their own until they are older.

The Importance of Baby Teeth

You might be thinking, "Why worry so much about baby teeth if they're just going to fall out anyway?" Well, these little teeth play a vital role in your child's development. They help your child chew food properly, speak clearly, and hold space for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them. Losing baby teeth too early due to decay can lead to problems with the alignment of permanent teeth.

When to Schedule the First Dental Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first dental visit should occur within six months of the eruption of the first tooth, or by age one, whichever comes first. This early visit allows the dentist to assess your child's oral health, provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, and answer any questions you may have. It also helps your child become comfortable with the dental environment.

Starting good oral hygiene habits early and maintaining regular dental checkups are crucial for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Remember, even though baby teeth are temporary, their health has a lasting impact!

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About NC Pediatric Dentistry - Expert Kids' Dental Care
NC Pediatric Dentistry offers kid-friendly dental care across NC. We provide fun, safe, and educational experiences for children. Learn more today!
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My Baby Just Got Their First Tooth! Now What?

What To Expect Now

Caring for That First Tooth (and the Gums Around It!)

The Importance of Baby Teeth

When to Schedule the First Dental Visit

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.

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A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE