What Milestones Should I Watch For My Child's Teeth?

Posted on 11/3/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

A smiling, excited young girl sits in the dental chair, eagerly awaiting her dental exam while her dentist places a bib on her.

Taking care of your child's teeth begins long before their first tooth even appears! Just like tracking their height and weight, keeping an eye on dental milestones helps ensure a healthy smile for years to come. Let's walk through some key things to look for as your little one grows.

# Pre-Eruption Preparations

Even before teeth pop through, good oral hygiene habits are important. From birth, gently wipe your baby's gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. This removes milk residue and bacteria. Think of it as laying the foundation for a healthy oral environment. This also gets your child used to having their mouth touched, which will make brushing easier later on.

# The First Tooth Fairy Visit (and the Many That Follow!)

The arrival of the first tooth is a major event! This usually happens around six months of age, but it can vary. Some babies get teeth as early as three months, while others wait until closer to a year. Don't worry if your child is a little early or late; every child develops at their own pace. Once that first tooth emerges, you can start brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).

# Building a Complete Set of Primary Teeth

Between six months and three years, your child will likely get all 20 of their primary (baby) teeth. The lower central incisors (the two front teeth on the bottom) are usually the first to appear, followed by the upper central incisors. Teething can be uncomfortable, so be prepared with teething rings or chilled washcloths for them to chew on. Continue brushing twice a day, gradually increasing the amount of toothpaste to a pea-sized amount around age three.

# Losing Baby Teeth and Welcoming Permanent Teeth

Around age six, the first permanent teeth will start to erupt, usually the lower central incisors and the first molars (way in the back). This is also when your child will begin losing their baby teeth, making way for the permanent ones. This process continues throughout childhood and adolescence. It's important to encourage good brushing and flossing habits during this time, as these newly erupted permanent teeth are vulnerable to cavities.

# Molars and More Molars

Permanent molars are especially important because they help maintain the space for other permanent teeth and are crucial for chewing. Because of their location in the back of the mouth, molars can be tricky to clean. Talk to your child dentist about dental sealants, which are thin coatings that protect the chewing surfaces of molars from decay.

# Regular Check-Ups with a Child Dentist

Regular visits to a child dentist are essential for monitoring your child's dental development. A child dentist can detect early signs of cavities, assess the alignment of the teeth, and provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices. These appointments usually start around the time of the first tooth or by age one. Early intervention can prevent many dental problems from developing later on. We can also provide tips specific to your child's needs and address any concerns you might have about their teeth or oral health.

Doctor Referral

Insurance Information

Education

A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE

NC’s Premier network of pediatric dental practices is committed to delivering a full suite of trusted, comfortable, and informative oral care services. With kid-centric spaces and experiences, we teach kids how to care for their smiles.

Sitemap

NC Pediatric Dentistry, 202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200, Mooresville, NC 28117; tbd; ncpediatricdentistry.com; 11/13/2025; Associated Words: pediatric dentist;