Dental Milestones For Your Child

Little girl in a green bathrobe smiles as she brushes her teeth.

At Atlantic Dental Partners, we have the delightful opportunity to enjoy your child’s dental milestones along with you. Reaching any of these milestones not only signals a new phase in your child’s life, but ensures that they will enjoy great oral health in their adult lives. Here are some dental milestones you can look forward to experiencing with your child. 

1. First Tooth

The moment your child’s very first tooth erupts is a momentous occasion. The first tooth typically erupts at around six months of age and it’s almost always one of the bottom teeth. Once your child’s first tooth erupts, they’re ready to visit the dentist for the first time! 

2. First Dental Visit

Your child’s first dental visit is always a memorable moment! From the first time you take your child to the dentist, you should feel proud of yourself knowing you’re teaching your children healthy habits that will last a lifetime. It might seem early to visit the dentist, but it's a good idea to allow them to become familiar with our office and dental team when they are young to reduce the possibility of anxiety later on.

3. First Full Set of Teeth

Your child will have their full set of baby teeth at around three years of age. Be sure to take lots of happy photos during this time! This is the time to start establishing a good oral hygiene routine. Your children will need your help brushing their teeth for a few more years.

4. First Dental Cleaning

Your child should receive their first professional dental cleaning somewhere around two and six years old. Help them get in the habit of receiving two dental cleanings every year. This will make a huge difference in the health of their teeth over a lifetime.

5. First Lost Tooth

Your child’s first lost tooth is an exciting time — their adult teeth are on their way, and the tooth fairy will be paying them the first of many visits! Most children are ready to start brushing and flossing with less supervision at around this time. However, you know your child best so keep a close eye on them. Many children go to great lengths to get out of brushing their teeth, including getting the toothbrush wet just in case mom checks it!

6. Full Set of Permanent Teeth

Your child’s full set of permanent teeth will grow in over the course of a decade. This is time to take advantage of preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants. We want to help your children keep their teeth healthy for a lifetime.

7. Orthodontic Treatment

Almost all children and teens have to go through orthodontic treatment. Braces are seen as a rite of passage in middle and high school, and will help your child have a fully-functioning smile in just a few years. 

8. Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal typically occurs when you’re around seventeen to twenty years old. Our Atlantic Dental Partners team will monitor the growth of your child's wisdom teeth through the years. Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed but for some patients it is essential to keep the rest of the teeth healthy. We provide gentle wisdom teeth extraction. The recovery process varies, but it usually involves eating lots of soft foods, including gelatin, mashed potatoes, and even ice cream!

Pediatric Dentistry in Jamaica Plain & Malden, MA

Our staff at Atlantic Dental Partners is thrilled to deliver superior dental care to young patients. Call our Jamaica Plain office at 617-524-1110 or our Malden office at 781-321-0018 to schedule an appointment with us or book an appointment online. We can wait to help you celebrate your child’s dental milestones! 

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