Talking Teeth, February Is National Children’s Dental Health Month – What To Know About Why Fluoride Is Safe And Important for Children’s Teeth

February 13, 2025February 12, 2025 ~ kidstoothhotline ~ 1 Comment

In the Know for You to Know

There I was, a brand new pediatric dentist. I was ready to take the on the world and stop cavities. Fluoride was my super power to halt cavities before they started.

I was examining a 3 1/2 year old girl who lived in a town with fluoridated water, but she was drinking bottled water. When I asked why bottled water, her Mom asked me 2 questions.

These 2 questions are the top 2 on practically every parent’s mind when fluoride is mentioned. Why is fluoride is so important? and Do I need worry about my child drinking water with fluoride?

Fluoride can spark some differences of opinion. Today, we’re discussing fluoride basics, why fluoride is safe and its importance for protecting children’s teeth against tooth decay (aka cavities).

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

Fluoride can be found naturally in water, soil, air and some foods.

Why Is Fluoride Important?

Fluoride is one of the best and safest ways to prevent cavities for children.

How Does Fluoride Work?

Your mouth contains bacteria that feed on the sugars in the foods we eat and the beverages we drink. This produces acid that can wear away the hard, outer shell of your tooth’s enamel. This can lead to cavities.

Fluoride protects teeth by making the teeth stronger and more resistant to acid. It not only reduces the risk of cavities, it can even help reverse early signs of decay.

How Does Fluoride Prevent Cavities?

Fluoride prevents cavities in 3 ways.

Fluoride is like a shield for your child’s teeth. It helps to strengthen tooth enamel. By strengthening the enamel it can stop cavities before they start and even repair tiny areas of cavity damage.

Plus, fluoride fights off those troublesome germs that cause tooth decay.

Along with healthy eating and good toothbrushing habits, fluoride is a great way to keep your child’s smiles cavity free and strong.

**Some Of Us Like To Smile, Others Not So Much**

Playing Is Like Brushing Teeth, We Do It Everyday — **Some Of Us Like To Smile, Others Not So Much**

Is Fluoride Safe?

Yes, fluoride is safe and effective in preventing cavities when used correctly.

However, too much while teeth are growing and developing can cause fluorosis. This is usually mild, with tiny white spots on teeth that are hardly noticeable. Severe cases are rare, but can cause enamel discoloration.

To avoid this keep fluoride containing products out of reach, especially for little ones. The right amount, like in toothpaste for your child’s age and drinking water gives your child all the benefits.

Should I Be Worried About My Child Drinking Water With Fluoride?

No. Fluoridated water is easy and one of the best beverage choices for all children.

Sweetened drinks like juice (even 100% natural), soda and sports drinks contribute to weight gain and tooth decay.

Fluoridated water is calorie free and protects teeth.

Do I Need To Worry If My Child Swallows Toothpaste With Fluoride?

Not if you are using the recommended amount of toothpaste for your child’s age and supervising their morning and evening brushing.

Three go to sources about fluoride toothpaste and toothbrushing are The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, The American Dental Association, and The American Academy of Pediatrics.

If We Brush Our Children’s Teeth With Fluoride Toothpaste, Do We Still Need To Drink Fluoridated Water?

Yes. Drinking water with fluoride bathes their teeth in small amounts of fluoride throughout the day and has been found to add to the benefits of brushing with fluoride toothpaste.

Drinking water with fluoride helps prevent cavities before they start.

I May Have A Few Teeth But My Mommy Is Making Sure We Brush With Fluoride Toothpaste — I May Have A Few Teeth But My **Mommy Is Making Sure We Brush With Fluoride Toothpaste**

We Love Our Teeth Thanks To Our Mom and Dad — I May Have A Few Teeth But My **Mommy Is Making Sure We Brush With Fluoride Toothpaste**

4 Sources Of Fluoride

There are 4 sources of fluoride:

Fluoridated Water
Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride Supplements

Fluoridated Water

Most tap water in the United States contains fluoride to help fight cavities.

One of the easiest ways to ensure your child gets enough fluoride is by choosing fluoridated tap water as their go-to drink. Not only does it strengthen their teeth, but it also supports their overall health.

Fluoride Toothpaste

Brush teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.

For children under 3 years old, use a smear of toothpaste, which is the size of an uncooked grain of rice.

If your child is older than 3 years old use a green-pea size amount of toothpaste.

Fluoride Treatments

Your pediatric dentist can apply fluoride varnish to your child’s teeth for extra protection against cavities.

A fluoride treatment is quick and painless. Fluoride varnish is a sticky yellow or orange substance that often has a pleasant taste.

The varnish application is fast and sets quickly. Your child may be advised to avoid eating of drinking for a short period of time (maybe 30 minutes) after the treatment. This is so that the fluoride isn’t washed off their teeth.

Fluoride Supplements

If your tap water doesn’t have fluoride, your pediatric dentist will recommend for your child to take a fluoride supplement. The fluoride dose in the supplement depends on how little fluoride is in your water.

Come To Daddy And Then We're Going To Clean Your Teeth Before Bedtime — **Come To Daddy And Then We’re Going To Clean Your Teeth Before Bedtime**

Even On Vacation We Still Brush Our Teeth 2X's A Day — **Come To Daddy And Then We’re Going To Clean Your Teeth Before Bedtime**

What To Remember

Children deserve the healthiest start to their lives, and a healthy smile is one of the best gifts parents can give them.

Fluoride is naturally occurring and has definite health benefits for children’s teeth. You’ll find fluoride in drinking water, toothpaste and mouth rinses. It’s safe and effective in preventing cavities when used correctly.

These small habits today will lead to strong, confident smiles for years to come.

What concerns do you have about fluoride? Does your family use fluoride toothpaste? Does your drinking water have fluoride or do you use bottled water? Do you have well water? Has your pediatric dentist or pediatrician ever mentioned your child needs to take fluoride supplements? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us a email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re her just for kids!

Talking Teeth, February Is National Children’s Dental Health Month

February 6, 2025February 5, 2025 ~ kidstoothhotline ~ 1 Comment

In the Know for You to Know

**I Have So Much To Teach You About Teeth**

Happy National Children’s Dental Health Month!

While we are dedicated to children’s dental health every day, this month makes it extra special to celebrate strong healthy smiles.

When did this annual tribute to children’s dental health begin? The American Dental Association (ADA) first observed Children’s Dental Health Day on February 8, 1949. In 1955, this 1-day event was extended to one week, and in 1981 it was transformed into a full month celebration acknowledging children’s dental health.

Today, National Children’s Dental Health Month is observed every February and is supported by the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Did You Know?

4 facts for you to know:

More children have cavities than have asthma,
Children who have cavities when they are young struggle with cavities their whole life,
The right amount of fluoride makes teeth strong,
Cavities are preventable.

What To Know For Your Baby’s Teeth

Children need their baby teeth. Healthy baby teeth allow them to chew and to speak clearly. Baby teeth also keep space for the adult teeth.

It’s important for children to have their teeth brushed twice a day just like their mommy and daddy.

Taking Care Before Teeth Come In

Before your baby’s teeth come into their mouth, it’s important to clean their gums. Clean your baby’s gums after every feeding, before their naps, and before bed time with a clean damp washcloth.

Healthy habits start early.

**Mommy And Daddy Love You So Much We Never Want You To Have A Cavity**

Let Mommy See Your Nice Clean Mouth — **Mommy And Daddy Love You So Much We Never Want You To Have A Cavity**

Taking Care Of Teeth For Children, Tweens And Teens Is Important

Good oral health along with healthy meals and snacks go a long way to help prevent cavities in childhood and adolescence.

Young children want to brush their own teeth, but they really need your help.

As children get older they still need your help to brush and floss properly. They have new teeth coming in they don’t even know about.

Adolescents watch and see everything. By you taking care of your own teeth, you’re setting a good example which also helps your child’s teeth stay healthy.

Mommy And Daddy Take Care Of My Teeth So I Can Smile Pretty For The Camera

Showing Off Our Big Healthy Smiles — Mommy And Daddy Take Care Of My Teeth So I Can Smile Pretty For The Camera

Our Beautiful Teeth Are The Best Gift Our Parents Could Give Us

Fluoride Helps Prevent Cavities

Fluoride is nature’s cavity super-power.

There are 3 ways fluoride helps make teeth strong:

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes it stronger against cavities,
Fluoride repairs tiny weak spots in the enamel before bigger problems develop,
Fluoride fights against cavity causing bacteria in the mouth.

Fluoride Is Safe

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention all agree that water fluoridation is safe, effective and works to prevent tooth decay (aka cavities).

Daddy And Me Brushing Time — Still No Cavities At My Age

Talking Tooth Care

Introducing brushing and flossing into your child’s routine can seem complicated.

A fun way to start introducing your at home toothbrushing and flossing routine can start with watching a video cartoon the ADA put together about a school age dinosaur named Dudley and his message about taking care of teeth.

What To Remember

Cavities are the #1 childhood disease. The good news is they are preventable.

Start early even before your infant gets their first tooth by cleaning their gums.

As your child grows your consistency helps establish their daily toothbrushing and flossing routine. By you taking care of your own teeth, you’re setting a good example will also help your child’s teeth stay healthy.

Cavities are preventable with a good at home oral hygiene routine, eating healthy foods, and drinking fluoridated water. As a parent you can help give your child their bright healthy smile.

I Always Brush My Teeth For 2 Minutes 2X's A Day — **Loving My College Smile**

What are your healthy toothbrushing habits? Do you have any tips and tricks for your child’s daily routine? What are your tips to prevent cavities? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us a email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us on Facebook

**Healthy Teeth, Happy Smiles, Healthy Family**

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Why Are My Child’s Baby Teeth Crooked?

January 30, 2025January 29, 2025 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

My Baby's Teeth Are Beautiful But Why Are They Crooked? — **My Baby’s Teeth Are Beautiful But Why Are They Crooked?**

You’ve been eagerly waiting for your baby’s teeth to come in. Now is the time. Their teeth are coming in. The color and shape are what you expected, but the position looks off.

Lots of parents expect, or at least hope to see their baby’s beautiful teeth lined up in a perfectly straight row.

That’s not always the case. There are times, and more often than not, that baby teeth do not come in straight. They come in misaligned, more commonly known as crooked.

Crooked teeth are one of the most common types of dental issues for children.

So what’s a parent to do?

What Causes Crooked Teeth?

There are several factors that contribute to the position of baby teeth, such as ~

Genetics

Misaligned teeth and jaws are often due to mismatched jaw growth. Jaw and facial growth are determined by genetics, and children inherit traits from both parents.

Prolonged Habits

Oral habits like thumb sucking and finger sucking are known as digit habits. These digit habits and/or pacifiers apply pressure on the roof of the mouth (aka palate) and top front teeth. This leads to a narrowing of the top jaw and protruding front teeth

Tongue Thrusting And Mouth Breathing

Tongue thrusting and mouth breathing are known as myofunctional (aka muscle) disorders. They may interfere with facial growth and lead to crooked teeth and/or bite problems.

Early Baby Tooth Loss

Early loss of a baby tooth may be due to tooth decay (aka cavities) or tooth trauma. When a tooth has a cavity which is large enough for the tooth enamel to break off, the tooth behind tips into the broken spot.

When a baby tooth is lost due to decay or injury from a trauma, the teeth on both sides of the gap move into the space. This causes crooked baby teeth and also blocks the adult tooth from coming in correctly.

**My Mom And Dad Are Wondering Why My Teeth Are Crooked**

Does It Matter If My Child’s Baby Teeth Grow In Crooked?

It doesn’t generally matter if your child’s baby teeth grow in crooked. Your child’s mouth, jaws and face will be doing a lot of growing and changing over the next several years. This growth can affect the position of teeth as they grow. So let growth take its course.

Should I Be Concerned About My Child’s Crooked Baby Teeth?

It’s okay to be concerned. You’re being extra observant and vigilant about your child’s teeth.

This is also something to discuss with your pediatric dentist, either at your child’s upcoming appointment or on the phone.

Depending on your child’s age, they may take a watch-wait-and-see approach. When your child has their regular 6 month check up appointment this is something pediatric dentists are trained to evaluate and discuss with you.

If you’re concerned and don’t want to wait, then call their office and talk with them.

Is There Anything I Can Do To Prevent My Child’s Teeth From Coming In Crooked?

As a parent this is something you really want to prevent. However this is something you can’t prevent.

What Can I Do If My Child’s Baby Teeth Come In Crooked?

There are things you can do to reduce the severity of the problem:

Stop Thumb Sucking, Finger Sucking And Pacifier Use

Digit habits (thumb sucking, finger sucking) and pacifiers can alter the position and alignment of teeth when the teeth erupt into their mouth.

For some children these effects can be seen when they are as young as 24 months of age.

This is why it’s best to encourage your child to stop sucking their thumb, or their finger, or their pacifier at or around the age of 18 to 24 months old.

While most children may naturally stop digit sucking or using a pacifier around 24 months old, there are those who don’t want to stop on their own.

Depending on your child’s age, your pediatric dentist may suggest a habit appliance, a certain type of nail polish, how to say good-bye to the pacifier or an orthodontic evaluation.

I'm A Big Girl, Why Do I Need A Pacifier? — **Giving Away My Pacifier**

Treatment For Myofunctional Habits

Tongue thrust and mouth breathing are 2 types of habits that affect tooth position and jaw growth.

Tongue thrust is also called reverse swallow or immature swallowing. This occurs when the tongue moves forward and pushes against the front teeth during swallowing.

The tongue is a strong muscle. This type of swallowing can change the position of teeth and move jaws out of alignment due to the constant pressure of the tongue.

It is important to talk with your pediatric dentist and pediatrician. They can talk with you about allergies, mouth exercises, myofunctional therapy, or habit appliances to address your child’s specific needs.

Take Care Of Baby Teeth To Prevent Tooth Loss

Baby teeth are very important for 4 reasons:

they are needed for the growth of your baby’s jaws, muscles and their face.
their teeth are also necessary for your child to be able to chew their food, eat well and grow healthy and strong.
their teeth help them to speak, their tongue and cheeks engage the surfaces of their teeth to help them form the sounds they need to talk.
baby teeth provide the space for their permanent teeth to develop and to guide them into the correct position.

What To Do If A Baby Tooth Comes Out Early

Everything is going along and then despite your best efforts your child loses a baby tooth earlier than they should be losing it.

Losing a baby tooth too early can change the position of the surrounding baby teeth and their adult tooth.

It’s important to talk with your pediatric dentist about something to help prevent this from happening. There is a dental appliance that is used for this purpose. It’s called a space maintainer.

What To Remember

Whether your child’s crooked teeth is genetic or caused by habits like digit sucking, there are ways to address the misalignment. Early intervention early, addressing habits, a healthy diet with good oral hygiene can help prevent tooth misalignment in children.

Are you happy with how your child’s teeth look? Does your child have crooked teeth? What are you doing to correct the position of their teeth? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me and Like Us on Facebook

**I Asked My Mom And Dad Why My Tooth Looks This Way**

I Hope My Crooked Teeth Get Straight — **I Asked My Mom And Dad Why My Tooth Looks This Way**

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Toddler Tooth Time – Tips For Your Toddler’s Healthy Teeth

January 23, 2025January 22, 2025 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

My 20 Baby Teeth Make Me Smile and Sing

Children grow so fast. Taking care of a toddler is so different from taking care of an infant.

There are so many new things to know and do. How we take care of their teeth also changes.

Toddler’s teeth are so important. That’s because the way we take care of their teeth now affects how they will take care of their own teeth in the future.

So what is there to know about your toddler’s amazing teeth? We’re glad you asked.

20 Teeth Make A Complete Set

Up until this time your child’s teeth have been like an iceberg with parts peaking through the gums while the rest is still growing underneath.

By the time your toddler is 3 years old teething is over and they will have all of their 20 baby teeth.

Brushing Starts And Ends Your Day

Make a game out of brushing your child’s teeth 2 Minutes 2X’s A Day. Brush in the morning after breakfast and at night right before their bedtime.

There are so many yummy flavors of toothpaste to entice your child. All you need is a small (dry) rice grain size amount of paste on their brush.

When To Start Flossing

It’s best to begin flossing their teeth once they have two teeth touching.

Flossing is recommended with the nightly brushing routine. If your child lets you floss more often then definitely make that part of your habit.

Floss Before You Brush

Flossing first allows you to remove everything that is between their teeth (and there is always something there) so you can brush everything away.

Can’t Spit Out?

Your child can’t spit out? No worries, have a moistened soft wash cloth handy to wipe their mouth and teeth, and a dry one to wipe their lips and chin.

A Handy Tip

The last thing that touches their teeth at night is their toothbrush.

We Say Floss 2 Times A Day And Floss 1 Time A Day — **We Say Brush 2 Times A Day And Floss 1 Time A Day**

Mommy Flossed Both Of Our Teeth — **We Say Brush 2 Times A Day And Floss 1 Time A Day**

Keep An Eye On Snacking And Juice

It’s important to avoid all day snacking.

Toddlers need their snacks. They are an opportunity to provide nutrients because toddlers actually need more nutrients than they can get at meal time.

Juice By Any Name Is Still Juice

Juice is not the way for your child to meet their daily fruit and vegetable needs. Not even 100% juice. Not even organic juice. Juice, soda, and sports drinks are sugar sweetened beverages with no real nutritional value and put children on the fast track to harming their teeth.

Water And Milk Are The Winners

Drinking water and plain low fat milk are the healthiest choices. Water is the best choice in-between meals and for hydration.

Plain Milk Is The Best — **Drinking Water With Mommy**

Tooth Enamel Is Strong But…

The hard outer shell of teeth is enamel. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body, but it can also be weakened.

Keeping Enamel Strong

2 of the best ways to keep enamel strong and help strengthen weakened enamel is to drink fluoridated tap water and brush with fluoride toothpaste.

Bottled Water Or Filtered Water

Bottled water often contains little to no fluoride. If you use a carbon or charcoal filter in a pitcher, the filter leaves most of the fluoride in the water.

Not Sure About Fluoride In Your Water?

Call your town hall, county hall, the company who bills you for your water, or your well servicer. Ask them for a water report and specifically ask about fluoride.

Play It Safe

Toddlers love to explore. Whether they toddle, walk, run, climb, or jump the possibility always exists that teeth can get hurt.

Falls from high chairs, strollers and shopping carts, as well as automobile accidents, are frequent causes of tooth and/or mouth injuries.

What Happens To Teeth?

The teeth most commonly hurt are the lower and upper front teeth. These teeth can be moved around or broken in all different ways. There’s also the possibility that the gums, tongue, cheeks or lips can be bruised or cut.

To help reduce the risk of injuries, make sure your child is secure in their car seat and wears a helmet when riding their bicycle.

If anything like this ever happens, contact your pediatric dentist or go to the closest emergency room immediately.

Rewards And Praise

Just not candy.

What To Remember

Your toddler means everything to you and as a parent you want the very best for them. With these tips as your guide you are laying the foundation for a life time of beautiful smiles and good dental health.

Walking With Mom Eating My Apple — **Eating Our Grapes For Snack**

How do you take care of your toddler’s teeth? What are your burning questions?, biggest challenges?, best strategies? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Baby On The Way? Top Tips For Your Newborn’s Healthy Teeth

January 16, 2025January 15, 2025 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

We're Having A Baby — **We’re Having A Baby**

There are so many things to think about and do when you have a baby on the way. Some days you can’t believe how fast the day flew by.

With so many things on your mind and new experiences, teeth are the last thing you’re thinking about.

While this is so true, we’ve put together the 5 most asked questions from parents. These questions are from Moms and Dads who look back and wish they had asked these questions when they were pregnant.

As an expectant mother, what can I do to help my child have healthy teeth?

It’s important for you to take care of yourself. This also means that you need to take good care of your own dental health during your pregnancy and after your baby is born.

If you, or Daddy, or Grandma, or Grandpa have cavities or gum disease, that bacteria in the saliva will be passed to your baby by kissing, sharing eating utensils or licking a pacifier.

Remember to see your dentist, brush twice a day and floss before your nightly brushing.

**Mommy Is Licking Your Baby Spoon Clean**

Same Goes For Grandma — **Mommy Is Licking Your Baby Spoon Clean**

What can I do to prevent my baby getting cavities from bottle feeding or breast feeding?

Start when your baby is born.

Even before teeth come in it’s important to wipe their gums, cheeks, and tongue after each feeding with a wet wash cloth and before you put them down for bed.

**After Your Bottle Mommy Is Going To Clean Your Mouth**

I'm Breastfeeding My Baby Then I Will Clean His Mouth — **After Your Bottle Mommy Is Going To Clean Your Mouth**

When do I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?

The sooner the better.

Once their teeth start coming in, it’s necessary to clean their pearly whites after each feeding and before you put them down for bed.

Whether you use a wash cloth, baby tooth brush or finger brush, remember to lift their lips to see their whole teeth and use a tiny rice grain size of tooth paste.

A Clean Mouth For A Good Night's Sleep — **A Clean Mouth For A Good Night’s Sleep**

Any advice on teething?

From 4 months to 3 years old your child may have sore or swollen gums as their teeth start to come into their mouths.

Some children may run a low grade fever, some may have diarrhea, or some may tug at their ears. It’s best for you to hold and gently rub a cool wet wash cloth on their tooth bumps.

Never use teething rings made with wood, teething gels, gel pads, teething beads, teething necklaces or teething bracelets.

If you’re not sure its teeth or if your child is sick always reach out to your pediatrician.

Should I worry if my baby sucks their thumb or uses a pacifier?

Thumb or finger sucking is normal for infants and most use a pacifier. Toddlers usually stop by the time they are 2 to 3 years old.

Prolonged thumb or finger sucking can cause crowded and crooked teeth or bite problems. There are a few ways to address this when your child is older and specifically for their needs.

How old was your baby when you started to clean their mouth and brush their teeth? Do you have any dental questions you wish you had asked when you were pregnant? How about now? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me and Like Us on Facebook

More Tips? We have lots! We’re here just for kids!

Good Night Sleep Tight Don’t Let The Sugar Bugs Bite

January 9, 2025January 8, 2025 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Good Night, Sleep Tight, Won't Let The Sugar Bugs Bite After Brushing My Teeth — **Good Night, Sleep Tight, Won’t Let The Sugar Bugs Bite After Brushing My Teeth**

Tooth enamel is super hard. In fact enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. That’s right it’s stronger than bones.

Enamel has 3 important purposes. It protects the teeth from cavities (aka tooth decay), from hot and cold (foods and drinks) and fends off constant acid attacks (when we sip, eat and snack).

What we eat and drink is broken down into carbohydrates (aka sugars). The more often we eat and drink the more sugars we have in our mouth.

The more sugars we have in our mouth the more the bacteria in our mouth goes on a food frenzy. When the bacteria go on their feeding frenzy they release acids into our saliva.

These acids in our saliva mix with food particles in our mouth and form plaque. Plaque is that sticky white stuff that sticks to tooth enamel and tongues.

What’s A Tooth To Do?

Plaque keeps on accumulating until it’s brushed away. It’s the acids in the plaque that gnaw away at the tooth enamel over time.

It’s like a tug of war with 2 things going on at the same time. There’s demineralization where the plaque acids are weakening the enamel. There’s remineralization when toothbrushing and fluoride toothpaste strengthen the enamel by replacing the lost minerals.

When Is All This Happening?

During sleep our body makes less saliva, and the bacteria sit in our mouth and on our teeth.

The mouth is a warm, moist place which the bacteria love, and produce more acids.

If we go to sleep without brushing our teeth, the bacteria have more sugars to eat and put our teeth at risk for more demineralization.

How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Strong

For healthy teeth it’s about increasing remineralization and minimizing demineralization.

Boosting the remineralization process is about amazing oral hygiene habits and a healthy diet.

Tips To Keep The Sugar Bugs Away

6 Months – 2 Years Old

If your baby is given a bottle when going to sleep make sure Only Water is in their bottle.

Bottles that have any sugary liquids or carbohydrates – like milk, formula, fruit juice keep their teeth under bacterial acid attack all night long.

Mommy Says Good Brushing Habits Start Early — **A Clean Mouth For A Good Night’s Sleep**

2 – 5 Years Old

When 2 teeth are touching it’s time to start Flossing.

When you’re toothbrushing and flossing their teeth make sure there aren’t any left overs. Sugar bugs love their late night snack!

**Mommy And Daddy Take Really Good Care Of My Teeth**

Getting Ready to Brush My Teeth with My Dad — **Mommy And Daddy Take Really Good Care Of My Teeth**

School Aged Children

Brush your child’s teeth Twice A Day. Once in the morning and Once at night.

Twice a day is better but if you need to pick one time, the most important time to brush your child’s teeth is Right Before Bedtime After you Floss their Teeth.

Remember, sugar bugs look forward to their nightly snack!

My Clean Teeth Make Me Sleep So Much Better — **I Brush My Teeth Then My Mom Checks**

Tweens And Teens

Remember to brush with a fluoride toothpaste Once in the morning and Once at night, and Floss (around every tooth) before their night time brushing.

The same way their appetite’s have increased, so have the sugar bug’s for their nightly snack!

**Healthy Teeth And Good Friends Keep Us Smiling**

I Have Red Hair, Freckles and Sparkling Healthy Teeth — **Healthy Teeth And Good Friends Keep Us Smiling**

What To Remember

There you have it! 5 reliable ways to healthy tooth enamel.

By toothbrushing twice a day and flossing every night, rinsing with water after every meal and snack, eating a well balanced diet, and seeing your pediatric dentist for regular checkups, you’re helping to keep those sugar bugs away from your child’s teeth.

How do you keep the sugar bugs away? What are your successful tips and tricks to win the remineralization game? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

4 Children’s Dental Tips For Healthy Smiles In 2025

January 2, 2025January 1, 2025 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Wishing each of you a Happy New Year! To new beginnings, healthy habits, and lots and lots of laughter in this year ahead.

Here we are. On the 2nd day of this new year. Whether you feel eager or daunted, try picking one small change to your child’s oral hygiene routine.

You may choose to start with brushing twice a day or flossing every night. Because, remember, how we start the day is how we end it. With bright healthy smiles all day long!

Here are 4 simple ways to start 2025 on the right foot. Because a healthy smile is the best gift to give your child.

Embrace Sugar-Free Treats

Now-a-days the emphasis for many families are sugar-free snacks and gum as healthier alternatives to sugar-rich treats.

These options not only decrease sugar in children’s diets, they also protect their teeth from harmful sugar acid buildup.

While it’s a good idea to incorporate more sugar-free options into your child’s diet, it’s also important to always encourage rinsing with water after meals and snacks.

I Love My Fruit, Then Mommy Brushes My Teeth — **Healthy Snacks For My Healthy Teeth**

Prioritize Toothbrushing

Toothbrushing and fluoride are 2 of the best defenses against cavities by strengthening tooth enamel.

There are 2 ways to help make sure your child gets the right amount of fluoride. The first is by brushing with an American Dental Association (ADA) Seal Of Acceptance fluoride toothpaste. The second is by drinking fluoridated water whenever possible.

**Brushing My Teeth Just Like My Daddy**

I Like To Show Off My Smile — **Brushing My Teeth Just Like My Daddy**

Consider Sealants For Protection

Dental sealants provide an extra layer of protection because they create a barrier over the grooves and crevices in teeth.

Sealants are a great preventive measure, especially for molars.

Replace Used Toothbrushes

The New Year is the perfect time replace worn toothbrushes with new ones.

A useful guide is that a toothbrush should be changed every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed or bent.

What To Remember

Set achievable oral health care goals for this year. Start with brushing twice a day, or flossing every night.

Celebrate milestones to keep both of you motivated.

Be consistent while also modeling good oral hygiene habits yourself. This helps instill in children their daily routine.

Setting small attainable goals makes tooth care more accomplishable and less overwhelming.

**Taking Good Care Of My Teeth Gives Me More Time For School**

As you reflect on the year that was and look forward to all that’s to come, cheers for a happy, bright and smile filled 2025!

Good Night, Sleep Tight, Won't Let The Tooth Bugs Bite After Brushing My Teeth — **Good Night, Sleep Tight, Won’t Let The Tooth Bugs Bite After Brushing My Teeth**

What is your tooth goal for your child in the first month of this new year? What will you choose? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us on Facebook

**Thanks Mom And Dad For My Great Teeth Habits**

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

When Do Children’s Permanent Teeth Come In?

December 5, 2024December 4, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

**Can You Guess How Many Grown Up Teeth I Have?**

Now you’re a tooth pro for your child.

You know about their baby teeth and how to take care of them. You have this down!

Then your child is telling you their friends are getting new teeth. These new teeth go by a few names. They’re known as adult, grown up, and secondary teeth.

Your child is asking when they’ll be getting their grown up teeth.

You’re thinking when you got yours, but you’re not sure, and no one seems to remember.

Today we’re talking about the timing for adult teeth coming into the mouth (aka tooth eruption).

Losing Baby Teeth

When a child has all their baby teeth, they’ll have 20 teeth. As children grow they ultimately lose all their baby teeth.

Generally children start losing their baby teeth around 6 years of age (aka exfoliation). However, the earlier baby teeth come into the mouth, the earlier they fall out. Like wise, the later baby teeth come in the later they fall out.

By the time a child has reached their tween and teen years, they will have lost all their 20 baby teeth. Those baby teeth are replaced with adult teeth.

**Just Yesterday Baby Teeth, Today Adult Teeth**

I Finally Lost My Last Baby Tooth, Now I Have My Adult Teeth — **Just Yesterday Baby Teeth, Today Adult Teeth**

When Do Adult Teeth Come In?

Adult teeth typically begin to come in about the time the bottom front baby teeth (aka central incisors) start to become loose.

Like with baby teeth, there can be individual variation in permanent tooth eruption. However, also like baby teeth, adult teeth usually follow a pattern.

6 Year Molars Coming In

6 year molars (aka first molars) are the first set of permanent teeth which come into a child’s mouth and do not replace any baby teeth.

You will see these adult molars coming into your child’s mouth all the way in the back in the empty space behind their last baby molar.

So when your child has all 4 of their 6 year molars they will no longer only have 20 baby teeth, they will have 24 teeth.

Adult Tooth Time Line

As a child enters their mid-teen years, they’ll have on average 28 teeth.

The baby teeth have been replaced with new adult teeth, and 2 sets of adult molars (6 year and 12 year molars) which come in all the way in the back.

Late teen to early adult years is when wisdom teeth (aka third molars) usually start to come into the mouth.

Adult Tooth Growth Guide

While the age varies with each child, there is generally a pattern in which the adult teeth come in ~

Tooth	Average Age (In Years)
Lower 6 Year Molar	6-7
Upper 6 Year Molar	6-7
Lower Central Incisor	6-7
Upper Central Incisor	7-8
Lower Lateral Incisor	7-8
Upper Lateral Incisor	8-9
Lower Canine	9-10
Upper First Premolar	10-11
Lower First Premolar	10-12
Upper Second Premolar	10-12
Lower Second Premolar	11-12
Upper Canine	11-12
Lower 12 Year Molar	11-13
Upper 12 Year Molar	12-13
Upper Wisdom Teeth	17-21
Lower Wisdom Teeth	17-21

So the adult teeth count is made up of 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, and 8 molars make up their 28 teeth. Including the 4 wisdom teeth that’s 32 teeth.

**4 Grownup Teeth And 2 More On The Way**

Grown Up Teeth Growing In — **4 Grownup Teeth And 2 More On The Way**

Fun Tooth Facts

Girls get their teeth earlier than boys.
Between the ages of 6 and 12 years old, children are in the “mixed dentition” stage. This means they have both baby teeth and permanent teeth.
Not everyone is born with wisdom teeth. If a child doesn’t have wisdom teeth they’ll have 28 teeth instead of 32.

What To Remember

This doesn’t have to be a stressful time for you as a parent. Children grow at their own pace, and there is a wide range when it comes to permanent teeth coming into the mouth.

Typically permanent teeth begin erupting around age 6, starting with the first molars and lower central incisors. This process continues until approximately age 21.

When all the adult teeth have come in, children and young adults have 28 permanent teeth, or up to 32 which includes the wisdom teeth.

Getting My Grown Up Teeth Doesn't Mean I Stop Having Fun — **Getting My Grown Up Teeth Doesn’t Mean I Stop Having Fun**

I Love To Show Off My Adult Teeth — **Getting My Grown Up Teeth Doesn’t Mean I Stop Having Fun**

How old was your child when they go their first adult tooth? Which tooth was it? Were they the same age you were when you got your first adult tooth? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us and Chat with us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

When Do Children Lose Their Baby Teeth?

November 21, 2024November 20, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline ~ 1 Comment

In the Know for You to Know

**My Tooth Is Loose, My Tooth Is Loose**

It seems like yesterday your baby got their first tooth. Now they’re coming to you saying “My tooth is loose.” Where did the time go?

This is an exciting time for you and your child as you embrace this new milestone.

Today we’re discussing this natural growth phase as your child begins to lose their baby teeth (aka primary teeth).

What Age Do Children Start To Lose Their Baby Teeth?

Generally children start losing their baby teeth (aka exfoliation) around 6 years of age.

However, the earlier baby teeth come into the mouth, the earlier they fall out. There are some children who may start losing their baby teeth as young as 4 years old.

It’s important to also keep in mind, the later baby teeth come in the later they fall out. So there are some children who may start losing baby teeth at 7 or 8 years of age.

**My Bottom Front Teeth Are Really Loose**

Mom, My Teeth Are Wiggly! — **My Bottom Front Teeth Are Really Loose**

How Many Teeth Do Children Lose?

When toddlers have all their baby teeth they’ll have 20 teeth, 10 teeth on the top and 10 teeth on the bottom.

As they grow, children will lose all 20 of their baby teeth.

Which Teeth Do Children Lose First?

Teeth fall out in the order they came in to the mouth.

Around the time a child turns 6 years old the first teeth they start to lose are their bottom front teeth (aka lower central incisors).

While the age varies with each child, there is generally a pattern in which baby teeth are lost~

Tooth	Age
Lower Central Incisors	6-7 years
Upper Central Incisors	6-7 years
Upper Lateral Incisors	7-8 years
Lower Central Incisors	7-8 years
Upper First Molars	9-11 years
Lower First Molars	9-11 years
Lower Canines	9-12 years
Upper Canines	10-12 years
Lower Second Molars	10-12 years
Upper Second Molars	10-12 years

What Are The Signs Of A Loose Tooth?

Sometimes a child doesn’t realize their tooth is loose, so they won’t be able to tell you.

If your child is about the age you were when you lost your first tooth or in the age range, go ahead and check for wiggly teeth. You may find none, 1, or 2.

So what are the tell-tale signs of loose teeth?

Tooth movement or wiggling when eating, talking, touching the tooth, brushing teeth.
Gaps between teeth – as teeth get loose they can move out of their original position. So if teeth were touching before when they become loose they can move and create spaces between teeth.
Change in tooth position – in the same way loose teeth create spaces between teeth, as teeth get lose they can move to the left or the right of their original position and sometimes overlap the teeth next to them.

As A Parent, Is There Anything Special I Should Do?

Losing teeth is an exciting time for some children, but unsettling for others.

Children do well with guidance in new situations, and losing baby teeth is no exception.

When you know that a tooth is loose, it’s important to stay calm and explain to your child what is happening. They’re growing up. The feeling around their wiggly tooth is new and different and it will go away when their tooth comes out; which may mean a visit from the tooth fairy.

Also, keep in mind that while your child’s tooth is loose, it’s important to show them why you need to stay on your regular toothbrushing and flossing routine; even if they don’t want to.

I'm So Excited, I Lost My Top Tooth And The Other One Is Wiggly — **I’m So Excited, I Lost My Top Tooth And The Other One Is Wiggly**

Losing More Baby Teeth — **I’m So Excited, I Lost My Top Tooth And The Other One Is Wiggly**

Can I Wiggle Out My Child’s Loose Tooth?

Some children love to wiggle their loose teeth anticipating an earlier visit from the tooth fairy. Other children may not like the feeling of their tooth moving in their gums and want to let the tooth come out on its own.

It’s all right if your child wiggles their loose tooth with their tongue or a clean finger, as long as their gums aren’t inflamed or causing pain.

What To Remember

The earlier baby teeth come in, the earlier they fall out

The most common time children lose their baby teeth is when their permanent tooth is ready to grow in and pushes out the baby tooth.

The first baby teeth that fall out are most often the bottom 2 front teeth, the lower central incisors. The next to fall out are the two top front teeth, the upper central incisors. Followed by the lateral incisors, first molars, canines and second molars.

Embrace each time the tooth fairy makes a visit to your house. These special moments will be a memory in the blink of an eye.

**So Much To Know About Losing Our Teeth**

How old was your child when they lost their first baby tooth? Did the tooth come out on its own? Did you need to wiggle their tooth out? Have you saved their teeth? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us and Chat with us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

What Is The Order For My Child’s Baby Teeth To Come In?

November 14, 2024November 13, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

You know your baby is going to get their teeth soon. You’re sad to see their adorable toothless grin go, but you’re anxiously awaiting that first pearly white tooth.

Everyone is telling you when baby teeth come in, and how long they take. But no one has mentioned the order baby teeth come in, or if there even is an order.

Well, yes there is a typical sequence for the way baby teeth come in (aka tooth eruption).

Today we’re talking about the usual order baby teeth (aka primary teeth) erupt into a baby’s mouth, and what happens if teeth come in out of order.

What Is The Order Baby Teeth Usually Come In?

Your baby’s teeth have been forming during your pregnancy. When your baby is born they have all their baby teeth under their gums. With their teeth waiting to come into their mouth at the right time.

Teeth Coming In — **Yes, Teeth Are Coming In**

The Typical Pattern For Baby Tooth Eruption

Baby teeth tend to erupt in pairs. So the tooth on the right will come in around the same time as their partner on the left.

Central Incisor

These are the front teeth. These teeth are thin and flat. When your baby is on solid food, they help them bite into their food. There are 4 incisors, 2 lower and 2 upper.

Lower Central Incisors come in between 4-9 months of age.
Upper Central Incisors erupt between 8-12 months of age.

Lateral Incisor

Each of these teeth comes in to the right and left of your baby’s central incisors. There are 4 lateral incisors, 2 lower and 2 upper.

Lower Lateral Incisors erupt between 10-16 months of age.
Upper Lateral Incisors come in between 9-13 months of age.

Canine (aka Cuspid)

Each canine comes in behind the lateral incisors. These teeth have the pointed edge and help to tear into food. There are 4 canines, 2 lower and 2 upper.

Lower Canines come in between 17-23 months of age.
Upper Canines erupt between 16-22 months of age.

Molars

Molars are the largest teeth in the mouth. They have large flat biting surfaces that help to chew and grind food. There are 8 molars.

First Molars come in behind the canine teeth. There are 4 first molars, 2 lower and 2 upper.

Lower First Molars erupt between 14-18 months of age.
Upper First Molars come in between 13-19 months of age.

Second Molars come in behind the first molars. There are 4 second molars, 2 lower and 2 upper. These teeth are the furthest back in the mouth.

Lower Second Molars come in between 23-31 months of age.
Upper Second Molars come in between 25-33 months of age.

What Is The Time Line For Baby Teeth To Come In?

Typically the first baby teeth to come through the gums are the bottom front central incisors. These teeth come in when baby’s are around 4-9 months old.

The usual order for baby teeth to erupt is~

Lower Central Incisors 4-9 months
Upper Central Incisors 8-12 months
Upper Lateral Incisors 9-13 months
Lower Lateral Incisor 10-16 months
Upper First Molars 13-19 months
Lower First Molars 14-18 months
Upper Canines 16-22 months
Lower Canines 17-23 months
Lower Second Molar 23-31 months
Upper Second Molars 25-33 months

Showing Off My Pretty Teeth — **All My Teeth Are In**

How Many Baby Teeth Should My Child Have?

Between 25-33 months of age, the upper second molars erupt. By their 3rd birthday your toddler should have a full set of 20 primary teeth.

What If Baby Teeth Come In Out Of Order?

Children’s teeth are just like they are, lots of variety. While there is a typical time line for baby teeth to come in there is also variability in the process.

There may be no cause to worry if your baby’s teeth don’t come in the same order as their sibling’s, cousin’s or your friend’s baby.

Maybe their upper central incisors come in before their lower ones. Or, maybe the lower canine comes in before the upper first molars.

The exact order the teeth come in doesn’t matter. What matters is that the teeth come in and your child has their full set of 20 baby teeth by about their third birthday.

**My Sister And I Have The Same Teeth But They Came In In A Different Order**

My Teeth Came In Different Times Than My Brother's Teeth — **My Sister And I Have The Same Teeth But They Came In In A Different Order**

Did You Know?

3 Tips to know about baby teeth~

Girls get their baby teeth earlier than boys.
Baby teeth are called milk teeth because they are whiter than adult teeth.
You can start brushing your chid’s baby teeth when they first start to come in, and floss their teeth when 2 teeth are touching.

What To Remember

Your baby’s first teeth are an important milestone in their growth. Baby teeth have an impact on your child’s facial development, their bite and how they chew their food.

The average age for a baby’s first tooth come into their mouth is between 4 and 9 months old. You can expect to see 2-4 new teeth come in every 3-4 months.

Teeth come in starting with the front central incisors, followed by the lateral incisors, canines, first molars and second molars.

When teeth come in, the bottom and top teeth typically alternate in terms of appearance.

Sometimes teeth come in out of sequence, and that’s okay, as long as they come in and they are healthy.

Do you remember which baby tooth was the first one your child had come into their mouth? It’s okay if you don’t, this isn’t a test. Which was the last baby tooth that came in? Did your child follow the typical tooth path or did they forge their own? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us and Chat with us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

What Is Fluoride?

Why Is Fluoride Important?

How Does Fluoride Work?

How Does Fluoride Prevent Cavities?

Is Fluoride Safe?

Should I Be Worried About My Child Drinking Water With Fluoride?

Do I Need To Worry If My Child Swallows Toothpaste With Fluoride?

If We Brush Our Children’s Teeth With Fluoride Toothpaste, Do We Still Need To Drink Fluoridated Water?

4 Sources Of Fluoride

Fluoridated Water

Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride Supplements

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Did You Know?

What To Know For Your Baby’s Teeth

Taking Care Before Teeth Come In

Taking Care Of Teeth For Children, Tweens And Teens Is Important

Fluoride Helps Prevent Cavities

Fluoride Is Safe

Talking Tooth Care

What To Remember

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What Causes Crooked Teeth?

Genetics

Prolonged Habits

Tongue Thrusting And Mouth Breathing

Early Baby Tooth Loss

Does It Matter If My Child’s Baby Teeth Grow In Crooked?

Should I Be Concerned About My Child’s Crooked Baby Teeth?

Is There Anything I Can Do To Prevent My Child’s Teeth From Coming In Crooked?

What Can I Do If My Child’s Baby Teeth Come In Crooked?

Stop Thumb Sucking, Finger Sucking And Pacifier Use

Treatment For Myofunctional Habits

Take Care Of Baby Teeth To Prevent Tooth Loss

What To Do If A Baby Tooth Comes Out Early

What To Remember

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20 Teeth Make A Complete Set

Brushing Starts And Ends Your Day

When To Start Flossing

Floss Before You Brush

Can’t Spit Out?

A Handy Tip

Keep An Eye On Snacking And Juice

Juice By Any Name Is Still Juice

Water And Milk Are The Winners

Tooth Enamel Is Strong But…

Keeping Enamel Strong

Bottled Water Or Filtered Water

Not Sure About Fluoride In Your Water?

Play It Safe

What Happens To Teeth?

Rewards And Praise

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

As an expectant mother, what can I do to help my child have healthy teeth?

What can I do to prevent my baby getting cavities from bottle feeding or breast feeding?

When do I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?

Any advice on teething?

Should I worry if my baby sucks their thumb or uses a pacifier?

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

What’s A Tooth To Do?

When Is All This Happening?

How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Strong

Tips To Keep The Sugar Bugs Away

6 Months – 2 Years Old

2 – 5 Years Old

School Aged Children

Tweens And Teens

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Embrace Sugar-Free Treats

Prioritize Toothbrushing

Consider Sealants For Protection

Replace Used Toothbrushes

What To Remember

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Losing Baby Teeth