_{Parenthood comes with a never-ending list of questions and when it comes to your child’s teeth, those questions often start before the first tooth even shows up. At MI Dental, we see a lot of first-time parents, especially moms, who come in concerned, curious and eager to do the right thing for their child’s oral health.}

_{To help ease those worries and offer some clarity, here is a collection of the most frequently asked pediatric dental questions with straight, science-backed answers you can trust.}

_{1. My child is six months old and still has no teeth, should I be worried?}

_{Nope, not at all! While most babies get their first tooth between 6–10 months, some are early and others take their sweet time. Genetics play a big role. If there are no signs by 18 months, your dentist may want to investigate but until then, it is perfectly normal. Primary Teeth Eruption Timeline.}

_{2. My child is seven and their baby teeth aren’t falling out. Is that okay?}

_{Yes. While the average age for baby teeth to start falling out is around 6, there is quite a bit of variability. Some kids are early “exfoliators” and others hold onto baby teeth longer. As long as the permanent teeth are on track to come in, it is nothing to worry about.}

_{3. The baby teeth are wiggly but not coming out. Should we have them pulled?}

_{In most cases, no. Let nature take its course. We always prefer to avoid unnecessary extractions in children, there is no need to put your child through that experience unless there is infection, pain or a significant delay. A bit of wiggling is just the body doing its job.}

_{4. My child’s adult teeth are growing in behind the baby teeth—what’s going on?}

_{This is by far one of the most common concerns and it’s normal! The permanent lower front teeth often come in behind the baby teeth. Once the baby teeth fall out, the new teeth typically drift forward into place. If the baby teeth don’t loosen at all after a while, your dentist may intervene.}

_{5. My child grinds their teeth at night—is that a problem?}

_{It may sound alarming, but nighttime grinding (bruxism) is quite common in children and usually harmless. It tends to stop on its own. We don’t recommend night guards for kids, as they can interfere with jaw growth and development.}

_{6. When can my child get braces? I thought we had to wait for all the adult teeth to come in?}

_{That used to be the norm but not anymore. Early orthodontic assessments (around age 7) allow us to guide jaw growth and make space for incoming teeth. Treating during the growth phase is more effective and predictable. Waiting too long can make treatment more complex and lengthy.}

_{7. When can I start using Fluoride toothpaste for my child?}

_{Start using a rice grain sized amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears. Once your child can reliably spit out toothpaste, usually around age 3, you can increase to a pea-sized amount. Fluoride helps prevent cavities and strengthens enamel.}

_{8. When can my child brush on their own?}

_{It all comes down to manual dexterity. A good rule of thumb? When your child can tie their own shoelaces, they likely have the coordination to brush independently. Until then, parents should supervise or assist with brushing, especially at night.}

_{9. If I give my child juice, should I dilute it with water?}

_{Yes, always dilute juice and serve it with meals only. Juice is high in sugar and can increase the risk of cavities even if it is “natural.” Better yet, stick to water between meals and snacks to protect their developing teeth.}

_{10. Is it okay if my child uses a pacifier or sucks their thumb?}

_{Both habits can affect jaw development if they continue past infancy:}

• _{They may cause an open bite, where the front teeth don’t touch.}
  
• _{This can lead to mouth breathing, dry mouth, and higher cavity risk.}
  
• _{Prolonged habits can also shift jaw position, impacting facial growth.}
  

_{Ideally, pacifier use should stop by age 2–3. If thumb sucking persists beyond that, talk to your dentist for tips on gently helping your child stop.}

_{11. What’s the best way to clean baby gums before teeth come in?}

_{Use a clean, damp cloth or a soft finger brush to gently wipe your baby’s gums after feedings. This helps reduce bacteria buildup and gets your child used to oral hygiene routines early.}

_{12. Are baby teeth really that important if they are just going to fall out?}

_{Yes, they are very important!}

• _{They help with speech development, chewing and facial growth}
  
• _{They hold space for permanent teeth}
  
• _{Early loss due to cavities can cause crowding or misalignment later}
  

_{Protecting baby teeth sets the foundation for a healthy adult smile.}

_{13. When should my child first see a dentist?}

_{The Canadian Dental Association recommends a first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth appearing. This early check-up helps monitor development and lets parents ask all their questions (like the ones on this list!).}

_{14. What toothpaste brand should I use for my child?}

_{Look for a Fluoride toothpaste that is approved by the Canadian Dental Association. Choose a flavor your child likes to encourage regular brushing. Just keep an eye on how much they use and that they are not swallowing it.}

_{15. My child has cavities in baby teeth, should we treat them or just wait?}

_{Cavities in baby teeth must be treated. Leaving them untreated can cause:}

• _{Pain or infection}
  
• _{Difficulty eating or sleeping}
  
• _{Premature tooth loss and misalignment}
  

_{Even though baby teeth fall out eventually, they are vital while they are here!}

_{Final Thoughts: Keep Asking, Keep Smiling}

_{Your questions are valid and you are not alone in having them. At MI Dental, we love supporting parents through every stage of their child’s dental journey. Whether it is that first baby tooth or their first orthodontic consultation, we are here to offer expert guidance in a warm and caring environment.}

_{Have a question about your child’s teeth? Book a visit with us at MI Dental, we are happy to help.}