Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, a Birmingham-based pediatric dental practice, has released “Understanding Baby Tooth Care Stages: A Pediatric Dentist’s Guide” to help parents care for their children’s teeth from infancy through the transition to permanent teeth. The resource is available online for families.

The guide breaks down oral care into four developmental phases. The first stage covers pre-tooth care from birth to six months, when parents should gently wipe their baby’s gums after feedings using a damp cloth. This early routine helps babies become comfortable with oral care before their teeth even arrive.

Stage two addresses the arrival of the first tooth, typically between six and twelve months. At this point, the guide recommends switching from a damp cloth to a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a rice-sized amount of kid-safe toothpaste. Parents should brush twice daily and schedule a first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth appearing.

The third phase spans ages one through three, when children develop their full set of twenty baby teeth. Parents remain responsible for brushing during this time while gradually involving toddlers in the process. The guide offers practical suggestions for parents, like playing a two-minute song during brushing or narrating what they’re doing.

The final stage covers ages four through six and beyond, when baby teeth begin to fall out and permanent teeth start coming in. This section addresses common concerns like wiggly teeth, proper brushing techniques for bigger teeth, and when to start phasing out thumb-sucking or pacifier use.

“Tooth care begins before the first tooth arrives,” said a spokesperson for the practice. “The habits parents build early make a real difference in how comfortable children feel about dental care later on.”

The guide includes a dedicated FAQ section with answers to common questions from parents, covering topics like juice consumption, bedtime bottles, teething discomfort, and what to do if a child develops a cavity. Each section offers clear, actionable steps without overwhelming new parents.

Hurst Pediatric Dentistry serves families in the Birmingham area with routine dental exams, cleanings, and sedation options for anxious patients. For more information about baby tooth care, visit https://hurstpediatricdental.com/blog/b/baby-tooth-care-stages-pediatric-dentist-guide

Hurst Pediatric Dentistry

19 Inverness Center Parkway
Ste 250
Birmingham
AL
35242
United States

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