Baby's First Tooth: A Complete Guide for New Parents

That tiny pearly white has finally made its debut — and with it, a mix of excitement, questions, and maybe even a little confusion.

Baby’s first tooth isn’t just adorable, it’s an important developmental milestone!

Here’s everything you need to know as you enter the world of teething and toddler oral care:

🦷 When Does the First Tooth Appear?

Most babies get their first tooth between 6–10 months. But every child is different, so don’t worry if your baby is earlier or later than others.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for the bottom front teeth—they’re usually the first to make an appearance!

🦷 Teething Troubles: What’s Normal?

Common teething signs include drooling, irritability, mild fever, biting, and swollen gums. Try cold teething rings or a clean damp cloth to soothe your baby’s gums.

Pro tip: No teether? Gently rub baby’s gums with a clean finger to soothe pain!

🦷 Start Cleaning Early

Before the first tooth appears, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth. Once the first tooth comes in, switch to a soft, infant toothbrush and clean twice a day.

Pro Tip: Laying your baby in your lap with their head close to you can make brushing easier!

🦷 Fluoride or Not? Ask the Doc

Use only a smear (rice grain size) of fluoride toothpaste — but only after checking with your pediatrician or pediatric dentist. This strengthens baby teeth and prevents early cavities.

Note: 'Rice grain size' for infants. For children 3 to 6 years old, a pea-sized amount.

🦷 Avoid Bottle at Bedtime

Bottle-feeding at night can lead to “baby bottle tooth decay.” Always clean your baby’s mouth before bed and avoid sweet liquids in bottles at night. Opt for water in a bottle, if needed.

Note: Giving a baby a sugary drink at nap time or night is harmful because saliva flow drops during sleep.

🦷 First Dental Visit: By Age One!

The internationally renowned dental authorities (ADA, AAPD, IDA) recommend a dental visit by your child’s first birthday or within six months of the first tooth.

Note: It’s more about prevention and education than treatment!

🦷 Celebrate the Milestone!

• Make it fun! Take photos, mark the date, and maybe even get a little keepsake (like a baby tooth memory book or box). These little celebrations help create a positive association with oral care.

• As your child grows up, make them choose their toothbrush to build excitement

• Sing songs or tell stories while brushing

• Use distraction like toys or a short video to help during brushing

• Be consistent and patient—it gets easier over time!

Pro Tip: Skip the store-bought keepsake— Do a fun DIY with your child to make it meaningful and memorable!

🦷 What About Gaps Between Baby Teeth?

Gaps are great! They make room for the larger adult teeth that will erupt later. Perfectly aligned baby teeth with no space may actually mean crowded adult teeth later.

Note: Since baby teeth hold space for adult ones—losing them too soon can cause alignment issues.

Final Thoughts

Your baby’s first tooth is just the beginning of a lifetime of smiles. With early care, gentle routines, and regular checkups, you’re setting the foundation for healthy habits that last a lifetime.

📞 Book your baby’s first dental visit with us at The Happy Tooth Dental Clinic, where little smiles feel at home.

Oh yes. We love helping little ones — and their parents — smile confidently! ⭐