Special Sub-Topic: Tooth Fairy Click Here To Play: Tooth Fairy

Which baby teeth are usually the first to erupt?

Lower incisors. Baby "tooth buds" begin to develop in utero. Bicuspids are not a part of the deciduous dentition (baby teeth), but they surely contribute to a beautiful smile in the permanent dentition (the teeth we end up with once the baby teeth fall out).

When should parents begin to clean their baby's teeth ?

When the baby starts teething. The first teeth should begin to erupt within 6 months (the baby will have a lot more saliva and will try to chew on whatever is in their mouths). Gentle wiping of the baby's gums with a soft, damp cloth (usually during bath time) will help to fight any bacteria growing around the emerging teeth. A soft toothbrush should be introduced later when the molars erupt.

What is "Baby Bottle Syndrome"?

Decay in baby teeth from prolonged exposure to the sugars in milk and juice. Sugars (found in milk, juice and breast milk) which are in prolonged contact with the baby teeth over time will cause decay at a rapid pace. Most children with this syndrome are used to going to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice and/or are sucking a bottle most of the day.

Why do some children develop thumb or finger sucking habits?

All of these (It is a natural reflex for babies to suck. Fingers and thumbs are handy, It helps some babies and children to sleep, It is a means of self comfort to the child). Many years ago, parents would put bitter tasting quinine on their children's thumbs (or under their finger nails) in an effort to stop the habit. Many children are traumatized and grow to be insecure if they are forced to stop sucking their thumbs too soon. It's best not to intervene unless the permanent teeth are erupting. At this time, it's best to consult with the pediatrician and the pedodontist...(and start a little bank account for the probable, future use of an orthodontist).

Which dental organization does the AAPD refer to?

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. The ADA refers to The American Dental Association.

What is anodontia?

Congenital absence of teeth. Anodontia is a rare genetic disorder.

What is the purpose of fluoride?

All of these (To help prevent decay in children's teeth, To re-mineralize enamel in the early stage of decay, To help prevent decay in adult teeth). Too much fluoride is called fluorosis. It causes holes and pitting in the enamel.

What is dentalgia?

A toothache. Dent (as in teeth, sounds like dentures) algia ( means pain).

Where in the mouth is the anterior mandibular area?

The front of the lower jaw. The mandible is the lower jaw. The maxillae is the upper jaw. Anterior means towards the front. Posterior means towards the back.

What is happening when baby teeth are exfoliating?

They are getting ready to fall out. Exfoliation refers to shedding. In the case of a baby tooth, the permanent teeth are trying to erupt. The pressure of the permanent tooth pushing on the baby tooth, causes the roots to disolve. The teeth get loose and fall out. Enter: THE TOOTH FAIRY!