Caring for your infant’s teeth

Tooth development already begins during the seventh week of embryological development, when the embryo is only 15 mm in length. Development then continues until 18 to 21 years of age, when all 32 teeth have erupted into the mouth.

The primary teeth (milk teeth) consist of 20 deciduous teeth. Eruption starts at approximately six months and can continue until around three years of age.

Decay:

Decay is an irreversible demineralisation of the hard tissues (enamel, dentine, and cementum) and the destruction of the organic matter of the tooth. This is caused by acid attack from bacteria, acidic foods and drinks, or stomach acid (reflux).

Caring for Teeth:

Teeth should be brushed twice a day with a specifically formulated children’s toothpaste as soon as the first tooth makes its appearance. There are many toothbrushes and types of toothpaste with the correct amount of fluoride that are commercially available and have been specifically designed for all stages of development in children. For young babies, tooth wipes containing fluoride and finger brushes are very useful.

Children must not brush their teeth with adult toothpaste, as it contains too much fluoride and children tend to swallow most of it rather than spit it out.

Information provided by Dr Estea Pretorius (Dentist), Family Dental Practice, Verwoerdpark, Alberton.
esteaph@webmail.co.za