Children's Dental Health Month- Common Questions about Children's Teeth Answered

  • Published
  • By Capt. Doug Grabowski
  • 49th Aeromedical Dental Squadron
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  February, typically known for leap years and Valentine's Day, also marks the time of year when the American Dental Association promotes National Children's Dental Health Month. Here are some common questions, and answers, concerning kid's oral health.

I have a 15-month-old who has not gotten her first tooth yet. Should I be concerned?

Typically, baby teeth erupt between the ages of 6 and 9 months. It is important to realize that this range is an average, and every child is different. There are very few conditions that lead to the absence of teeth, so be patient as the baby teeth grow before becoming visible in the mouth. If you still have concerns, seek an evaluation by your dentist.

My daughter just informed us she has a loose tooth, a day after her fifth birthday. There has been no trauma, so what could have caused this? I seem to remember losing my first tooth in first grade. Isn't this a bit early for her to get her first loose tooth?

Children lose their first primary tooth between the ages of 6 and 7. Again, this is an average; therefore, some children may lose teeth earlier, while others may retain baby teeth longer. Sometimes, a baby tooth does not fall out on its own and the dentist must remove it because it fused with the bone. If you notice a baby tooth remaining even after the surrounding teeth have come out, and it doesn't appear loose, then you should follow up with your dentist.

My 4-year- old son fell and knocked out his front tooth and chipped another one last week. Do I need to go to the dentist even though this is only a baby tooth?

Your family dentist should evaluate traumatic incidents as soon as possible. Some situations are emergent and should not wait particularly if the child is in any kind of pain, if he cannot eat or drink cold/hot foods, if there appears to be any tooth discoloration, or if there is swelling and bleeding of the gums. If these conditions do not apply, the child may be able to wait longer to see the dentist; however, it is important for the dentist to evaluate the child despite an absence of symptoms to determine possible damage to a developing tooth and to ensure there are no tooth fragments in the gum tissue.

I have an 8-year-old daughter and I can hear her grinding her teeth in her sleep. What can I do? Should I be concerned?

Grinding in children is common - about half of children younger than age 8 grind their teeth. Some subconsciously grind teeth when stressed or anxious. If the habit persists once all the baby teeth have exfoliated (fallen out), a dentist can make a protective appliance that your child can wear at night to protect the permanent teeth.

Should I schedule my 18-month-old for her first dental appointment?

The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends dental visits at ages 1, 2, and 3. At these appointments, the dentist will perform a basic oral exam and in turn, introduce the child to the dental environment. Dental work is usually minimal at younger ages, but routine visits help the children feel comfortable at the dentist's office. If dental treatment is necessary, the dentist may decide to take x-rays. These appointments are also good opportunities to talk with your dentist about any concerns.

Regular visits to the dentist can usually identify and fix problems before they become bigger. It is important to take time with your children and reinforce good oral hygiene habits while they are young. February may be children's dental health month, but your child's oral health is important year-round.