Debunking the Most Common Myths About Baby Teeth

Your baby, your precious bundle of joy, is the only person able to invoke every emotion within you - you even learn things about yourself you didn't even know existed. As a parent, when your offspring is happy you're happy, and when they're hurting, you hurt. Although it's normal to take in all the information and advice volunteered from others, you know that there are many misconceptions and myths about raising babies, including the teething process.

You know the saying, "everyone is different", right? Well, that also applies to babies and teething. The symptoms and signs of teething are different for each child, so knowing for sure if your child has a tooth pushing through, or if their irritation is due to something else can be confusing.

About Baby Teeth

Your child's primary teeth are temporary and are also referred to as baby teeth, or milk teeth. These are also the teeth that keep the tooth fairy in business. To help you decipher facts from fiction, the team at Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry has listed a few myths that every parent should know about their baby's teething process.

The Following Are Nine Common Teething Myths

Myth #1: A Sign of Teething is Fever

Teething typically comes with a few symptoms, including fever. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) studies have revealed that teething may cause a small spike in their body temperature, but not enough to induce a high fever. If your baby develops a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, something else is likely triggering it.

Myth #2: It's Too Soon for Teething

Lots of babies typically begin teething at around 4 to 6 months of age. The first teeth are normally their bottom teeth, called the lower central incisors. But don't be alarmed if your child's teething starts sooner. As a matter of fact, some babies are even born with a tooth or two, known as "natal teeth."

Myth #3: Teething Delay Indicates a Problem

With some babies, you may not see a tooth until after six months, and that's fine too. In fact, a lot of kids are simply late bloomers. Although your child's teeth are already forming under the gum line while still in utero, their first tooth may not push through for up to 12 months.

Myth #4: Baby Teeth Are Random

Not so much. Although it seems like baby teeth just show up randomly, the truth is, that teeth do come through in a specific order and are mostly paired. Generally, in the following order:

Central Incisors
Lateral Incisors
First Molars
Canines
Second molars

It's vital to understand that each child's teething process may not abide by this schedule, so no need to stress if those baby teeth choose their own order.

So not true! Remember, each child is different. Some signs like drooling, pulling on their ear, and being fussy are typical signs of teething, but all babies will not react this way. You can quickly examine your baby's gums by checking their gums for swelling and bruising on their gums, or you can rub your baby's gums with your finger to check for an incoming tooth.

Myth #6: Dentists Can't Treat Babies

Don't believe your baby doesn't need to see a dentist until their full set of teeth come in, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). Your baby should see a dentist once their first tooth has emerged, but surely by age one. Why? Well, babies can get cavities too. Additionally, the dentist will ensure that teeth are developing properly.

Myth #7: Baby Teeth Aren't Important

All teeth are important, including baby teeth. Unfortunately, since baby teeth tend to fall out anyway, lots of parents incorrectly assume these teeth aren't important. Did you know those baby teeth are crucial to the development and structure of your child's permanent teeth and mouth?

Myth #8: Baby Teeth and Cavities Don't Matter

Myth #9: Don't Worry About Brushing Baby Teeth

As soon as your baby's teeth appear, you should start brushing them. This helps to deter tooth decay and creates good dental habits. Using a damp, soft cloth to rub your baby's gums can help to reduce bacteria.

Why Sweet Tooth Dentistry?

If your baby has got their first few teeth, and you're in Kansas City, we have convenient locations in Overland Park and Shawnee. Don't wait on your baby's teeth, contact us today to schedule an appointment for your teething baby. In the meantime, check out our blog right here!