The first appearance of teeth in babies happens on average around the six-month mark, though don’t be surprised if you see initial signs of a tooth earlier or later than this. It’s not uncommon for your baby to be irritable and uncomfortable during this “teething” period because the gums become inflamed and sensitive, which can also cause congestion and drooling. Typically, girls begin teething earlier than boys, though for both the most common area for the first teeth to show is in t...

If you run your tongue over your teeth, especially the back teeth you use to chew (your molars), you’ll notice something: Rather than having a smooth surface, they’re rough. You’re feeling the many nooks and crannies that even brushing can’t always clean properly. That means food can get trapped, which can lead to cavity-causing bacteria to flourish. Although regular brushing and flossing is still the best way to keep your teeth healthy, the use of sealants can be an effective prevent...

A cavity in anyone’s tooth, baby or adult, can cause pain and, worse, infection. Having a cavity filled stops the pain and prevents possible infection. Also, if your baby or toddler has cavities, it can cause him or her to have difficulty chewing food, causing a variety of negative consequences. The bottom line is that you want your baby’s teeth to remain as healthy as possible because it promotes a smoother, healthier process as permanent teeth emerge. Untreated cavities mean higher leve...

Changing hormone levels during pregnancy can cause normal, healthy gums to become red, irritated and swollen. This irritation, known as “Pregnancy Gingivitis” is the body’s exaggerated response to plaque and calculus. It is very important during this time to stay current with your regular dental cleanings and exams to ensure that dental infections don’t get missed and lead to greater problems down the road. Although dentists will typically postpone major treatment until after the baby...