More Than Just a Cute Smile: Why Your Baby’s Tiny Teeth Are a Big Deal

Beyond helping them eat and speak clearly, baby teeth serve a critical hidden function: they hold the proper space for adult teeth.

Think of baby teeth like cars in a parking lot. If one is lost too early due to cavities or trauma, that "parking spot" is left open. Without it, other teeth can drift, leading to crowding or alignment issues later on. Keeping those little teeth healthy ensures there is room for the grown-up ones to come in straight and strong.

One of the most common questions we hear is, "When do I start brushing?" The answer might surprise you: Before they even have teeth!

• Start Early: Wipe your baby's gums and tongue with a soft washcloth or a gentle baby toothbrush to remove bacteria, food debris, and get them used to the sensation.

• Create a Routine: Once that first tooth arrives, ask your dentist or dental professional about the best oral care routine for your child. Make it fun! Play a favorite song or make it a game to reduce frustration and build healthy habits early.

• Watch the Snacks: Try to eliminate snacking or drinking anything other than water after their nighttime brush. Sugar sitting on teeth overnight is a recipe for cavities.

We know pacifiers and thumb-sucking provide comfort, but as your little one grows, these habits can shape their mouth in ways you might not want. Prolonged use can narrow the palate or cause front teeth to protrude.

• The Bottle Rule: The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests weaning off the bottle by 12 months (15 months at the latest) to help prevent cavities and bite issues.

• Soothing Habits: Gently working to wean pacifiers and thumb-sucking helps ensure their jaw develops correctly, saving you from orthodontic headaches down the road.

Your Quick Parent Checklist Ready to set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles? Here is your cheat sheet for the first few years:

• Book the First Visit: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday.  

• Brush with Fluoride: Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as teeth appear if recommended by your dental professional.

• Protect the Night: No milk or juice after the bedtime brush.

• Watch for Trauma: If your child bumps a tooth or you see something suspicious, call a dental professional immediately. Protecting a baby tooth now can save the adult tooth beneath it.

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.