Tiny Teeth, Big Smiles: Caring for Your Child’s First Teeth
Your child’s first teeth may be small, but they play a big role in their overall health and development. Baby teeth help children learn to chew properly, support speech development, and hold space for adult teeth later on. Getting dental care right in the early years lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
This simple guide covers what parents really need to know when those first tiny teeth start to appear.
When do baby teeth appear?
Most babies begin teething between six and twelve months, although every child develops at their own pace. The bottom front teeth are usually first, followed by the top front teeth. Teething can bring sore gums, dribbling, flushed cheeks, and disturbed sleep.
To ease discomfort, stick to safe options such as chilled teething rings, gentle gum massage with a clean finger, and extra comfort and reassurance. Teething gels that contain anaesthetic ingredients are generally best avoided unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
Brushing should start earlier than you think
A common misconception is that brushing can wait until a child has several teeth. In reality, brushing should begin as soon as the very first tooth appears.
Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice for children under three. Teeth should be brushed twice a day, with the bedtime brush being especially important, as teeth are more vulnerable overnight.
If you want a clear, step-by-step explanation of brushing techniques, toothpaste choices, and how dental care changes as children grow, this guide from Armytage Dental on how to care for your child’s first teeth is a helpful reference for parents.
Making tooth brushing part of the daily routine
Children thrive on routine, and tooth brushing is no exception. Introducing brushing as part of the morning and bedtime routine from the start helps children accept it as a normal part of daily life.
Many parents find success by brushing together so their child can copy them. Songs, simple timers, or tooth-brushing apps can also make the experience more enjoyable. While toddlers often want to brush independently, an adult should always finish the brushing to make sure every surface is properly cleaned.
Staying calm and consistent is far more effective than turning brushing into a daily battle.
Diet and sugar: what really matters
Diet plays a major role in protecting young teeth. Tooth decay is often linked to frequent sugar exposure rather than the occasional treat. Drinks such as fruit juices and smoothies, even those with “no added sugar,” can still be high in natural sugars and acidic enough to damage enamel.
Water and plain milk are the safest drinks for teeth, especially between meals and before bedtime. For parents looking for clear, trustworthy advice, the NHS provides useful guidance on children’s oral health and sugar intake.
When should children visit the dentist?
Ideally, children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early dental visits help children become familiar with the environment and allow dentists to offer tailored advice before problems develop.
These first appointments are usually short and gentle, focusing on reassurance rather than treatment. Starting early helps reduce anxiety and builds positive associations with dental care.
Caring for your child’s first teeth doesn’t require perfection. A simple routine, sensible diet choices, and early guidance can make a big difference. By starting good habits early, you’re helping protect not just tiny teeth, but your child’s confidence and smile for years to come.