How to Protect Your Child’s Smile from the First Tooth to the Tooth Fairy
If you’re a parent who wants to give your child the healthiest start possible, don’t overlook their dental development. From the moment that first little tooth appears, your child’s mouth is on a journey – and what happens in the early years can impact their health for life.
This guide breaks down the most important pediatric dental milestones, what to expect at each stage, and how to set your child up for a strong, confident, cavity-free smile.
Baby’s First Tooth: What to Expect Around 6 Months
Most babies cut their first tooth between 4 and 7 months of age – typically the bottom front ones. By age 3, most children have all 20 of their baby (primary) teeth. These tiny teeth may be temporary, but they play a major role in speech, chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into place.
Parent tips for early oral care:
- Wipe gums daily before teeth come in using a clean, damp cloth or silicone finger brush.
- Once teeth erupt, switch to a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride-free toothpaste.
- Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle, which can lead to early childhood cavities (also known as baby bottle tooth decay).
First Dental Visit: Schedule by Age 1
Wondering when your child should first see a dentist? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday – or within six months of their first tooth appearing.
Why an early dental checkup matters:
- It allows your dentist to detect any early signs of tooth decay or developmental concerns.
- It helps your child become comfortable in the dental office environment.
- You’ll get expert guidance on brushing techniques, teething relief, pacifier use, and thumb-sucking.
When to Start Flossing Your Child’s Teeth
As soon as your child has two teeth that touch, it’s time to introduce flossing – usually between ages 2 and 3. Even baby teeth are vulnerable to cavities between the teeth, and flossing helps prevent them.
How to make flossing part of your routine:
- Use kid-friendly floss picks to make it easier and more fun.
- Make flossing a bedtime habit right after brushing.
- Show them how it’s done by flossing your own teeth alongside them.
Thumb-Sucking and Pacifiers: When Should Parents Be Concerned?
Sucking on thumbs or pacifiers is a normal self-soothing behavior in babies and toddlers. But if your child is still doing it frequently after age 4, it may start to affect the development of their teeth, bite, and jaw.
According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, persistent and forceful thumb-sucking beyond age 4 can contribute to bite problems, narrow dental arches, and changes in facial growth. If the habit continues past preschool years, it’s a good idea to talk with your dentist about gentle strategies to help your child move past it.
Loose Teeth and the Start of the Tooth Fairy Years (Ages 6–12)
Around age 6, your child will likely begin losing their baby teeth, starting with the lower front teeth. This process continues through age 12 as their adult (permanent) teeth come in.
What to do during this stage:
- Let loose teeth fall out naturally – no need to rush the process.
- Keep up with daily brushing and flossing to protect new teeth.
- Visit the dentist regularly to monitor spacing, eruption patterns, and early signs of orthodontic needs.
Watch for the 6-Year Molars: The Unsung Heroes of the Bite
Your child’s first permanent molars typically appear around age 6 – and unlike other teeth, they don’t replace baby teeth. They erupt behind them and play a huge role in your child’s future bite alignment.
Why these molars matter:
- They help shape how the upper and lower teeth fit together.
- Their large, grooved surfaces make them more cavity-prone.
- Your dentist may recommend sealants to prevent decay and keep them strong.
The Role of Myofunctional Therapy in Early Oral Development
Here’s something many parents don’t hear about – but should: how your child breathes, swallows, and uses their tongue can impact their oral health and facial development just as much as brushing.
Children who breathe through their mouths, snore, have trouble chewing or swallowing, or show signs of speech delay might benefit from a myofunctional therapy screening. This therapy helps retrain the muscles of the face, mouth, and tongue to function correctly, supporting healthy growth and even better sleep.
Signs your child might benefit:
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Persistent thumb-sucking or pacifier use past age 4
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Narrow palate or crowding of teeth
- Speech issues or delayed development
It’s a gentle, non-invasive way to help your child thrive and may even reduce the need for braces or orthodontic treatment later on.
Raising Healthy Smiles Starts Early
The first few years of your child’s dental journey are more important than most parents realize. From baby teeth and first dental visits to flossing and oral habits, your guidance now lays the foundation for lifelong oral health.
At Restore Modern Dentistry in Bentonville, Arkansas, we specialize in providing gentle, high-tech, family-friendly dental care. Our team loves working with kids and empowering parents with the tools and information they need. We also offer in-office myofunctional therapy evaluations for families who want to be proactive about their child’s development.
Looking for a trusted dental partner who will treat your child like family? We’d love to welcome you.
Book your child’s first visit today – and give their smile the best possible start.