When it comes to pediatrics in Phoenix, dental health and hygiene are one of the most important areas to focus on in regards to the health of children. Receiving the proper care and developing dental hygiene habits are essential from a young age. The following are a few facts and tips to help keep you and your kids smiling:

  • There are 20 primary teeth that erupt between the ages of 6 months and 3 years of age. The first tooth to appear is one of the bottom center teeth, typically around 6 months old. These primary teeth are not permanent, and children usually begin losing these teeth around the age of 4 or 5 years. If your child has not received their first primary tooth by the age of 18 months, consult with a Pediatrix pediatrician in Phoenix.
  • There are 32 permanent teeth that erupt between the ages of 6 and 21 years old. The first of these teeth to grow in are the center teeth, on the top or bottom, between about 6 to 8 years of age. The last to erupt will be the secondary molars, more commonly known as wisdom teeth. Speak with your pediatrician in Phoenix to learn more about the effects that wisdom teeth may have on your child’s mouth.
  • Set up a schedule to ensure that your children are brushing their teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. If your child is too young to brush their own teeth, use a clean, wet washcloth or soft child sized toothbrush with water only to clean the teeth. Children aged 2 to 6 should attempt to brush their own teeth using a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Make sure they understand that the toothpaste must be spit out and not swallowed. Most children are able to brush their own teeth with no assistance around the age of 6. Flossing may take additional time, and is more likely achieved around the age of 10 years old.
  • Schedule an appointment to see your dentist at least twice a year for a dental exam and cleaning. Our Pediatrix pediatricians in Phoenix recommend scheduling your first dental visit after your child has reached 12 months of age.
  • If your child has trauma in the mouth or has had a tooth knocked out, the tooth should be held in their inner cheek area with pressure from the tongue. If this is not possible, place the tooth in milk or a saline based solution. After any traumatic incidents, seek immediate medical evaluation from a dentist or pediatrician in Phoenix.
  • If your child participates in sports, Phoenix pediatricians would encourage them to wear a mouth guard. This piece of gear significantly minimizes mouth related injuries during sporting events.

Teaching your child the basics of dental hygiene will give them the tools to achieve good dental health for the rest of their life. Establishing daily dental routines and visiting with a dentist and pediatrician in Phoenix will help your child to maintain a healthy, happy smile. Please feel free to discuss any questions or concerns with a physician at Pediatrix, your state-of-the-art pediatric clinic in Phoenix. Call Pediatrix at (602) 866-0550 or contact our Phoenix pediatricians online. Our pediatric clinic in Phoenix is dedicated to the health and happiness of your children, and is always more than willing to address any questions that you may have. We look forward to your visit!

Sincerely,

Michael Magalnick, DO, FAAP