How Many Teeth Kids Have?

Seeing your baby’s first smile is one of the greatest joys as a parent. While your child’s first smile might be a bit gummy, you can look forward to seeing it fill in over the next couple of years. Knowing how many teeth to expect to see in your child’s mouth gives you insight into how to keep their adorable smile healthy.

Know the General Timeline for Tooth Development

Like many developmental milestones, the timeline for the first tooth to come in can vary widely from one child to another. Most parents can expect to see their baby’s first tooth peeking through their gums around the time they are six months old. But, it could take up to a year for you to see a first tooth.

You’ll also want to note that most children have their full set of 20 teeth by the time they are almost three years old. If you don’t see a tooth come in by your child’s first birthday, then it’s a good idea to take them to a children’s dentist in downtown Austin to make sure their oral development is progressing normally.

Find Strategies That Help Soothe Teething Discomfort

Many babies express signs of discomfort during the teething process. In fact, seeing your child drool more than normal might be one of the first signs you notice that a new tooth is growing. You can wipe away drool using a soft washcloth to prevent skin irritation around their mouth.

If your child seems uncomfortable, then you can give them a teething ring that meets safety guidelines. You can also give them over-the-counter pain relievers with the approval of their pediatrician or children’s dentist. Rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger may also provide some relief due to the counter pressure.

Develop a Plan to Protect Your Child’s Developing Smile

Even though your child’s teeth might be brand new, they are still susceptible to tooth decay. In recent years, it’s been found that around 23% of children ages two through five have cavities. The good news is that tooth decay is preventable, and early treatment stops cavities from getting bigger.

A cosmetic dentist can fill cavities using special materials that match your child’s natural tooth color. At Toothbar, our team also performs dental exams, teeth cleanings and fluoride treatments that can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease at an early age. Bringing your child to the dentist within these early years of life also helps them to develop a positive relationship with their dental team that fosters better oral health for a lifetime.

Seeing your child’s smile can brighten any day, and you can keep their new teeth healthy and white with regular dental checkups. When you’re ready to find the answer to your question of where to find a dentist near me, you can contact us today. Our team at Toothbar is ready to answer your questions when you call us at 512-949-8202 to schedule your child’s first appointment.