Smile Facts
How often does your child need to go to the dentist?
When should you start brushing your little one's teeth with toothpaste?
You should immediately use a fluoride toothpaste when starting to brush your child's teeth. For children up to three years of age, the AAPD recommends a smear (grain of rice sized) amount of fluoride toothpaste. At three years of age, the recommendation is to transition to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
When should I take my child to their first dental visit?
The AAPD recommends that children be seen by six months after their first tooth erupts, or at one year of age, whichever comes first.
When are dental sealants recommended?
Dental sealants are recommended for permanent molars which usually come into the mouth around 6 and 12 years old.
When will my child lose their first baby tooth?
On average, a child will lose their first tooth around age 6.
When will my child lose their last baby tooth?
On average, a child will lose their last baby tooth around age 12.
How many primary baby teeth are there?
There are 20 baby teeth.
How many permanent adult teeth are there?
There are on average 32 adult permanent teeth including the wisdom teeth.
How much toothpaste should my child use?
For children under two-years-old, use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste. For those aged 2 to 5 years, a pea-sized amount is recommended