Watching your child grow brings many milestones, and their teeth are no exception. From that first tiny tooth to the moment they lose their first wobbly one, each stage comes with questions.
What’s normal? When should you start brushing? Is thumb sucking a problem? And how do you set them up for a lifetime of healthy habits?
This guide covers everything parents in Hawthorn—and beyond—need to know about children’s teeth.
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months of age, though it can vary. The two bottom front teeth (central incisors) usually appear first, followed by the four upper front teeth.
By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary or ‘milk’ teeth.
Teething can cause:
To ease discomfort:
Oral care begins before the first tooth appears.
Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feeds. This removes bacteria and gets them used to having their mouth cleaned.
As teeth appear, brush twice daily with a soft, child‑sized toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
Use a pea‑sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brush twice daily, and supervise to ensure your child spits out the toothpaste rather than swallowing it.
Children usually need help brushing until around age 7 or 8, as they lack the dexterity to do a thorough job themselves.
The Australian Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing.
Early visits help:
At Dental Clinique in Hawthorn, we focus on making first visits positive and stress‑free.
Losing baby teeth is a natural process. Children usually start losing their front teeth around 5–7 years of age.
Let the tooth come out on its own. Wiggling it gently is fine, but pulling it prematurely can cause bleeding, pain, or damage to the underlying permanent tooth. Most wiggly teeth will fall out during eating or brushing.
Sometimes a permanent tooth starts appearing before the baby tooth has fallen out. This often looks like two rows of teeth. In most cases, the baby tooth will loosen and fall out on its own within a few weeks. If it doesn’t, your dentist can advise whether it needs to be removed.
Sucking is a natural reflex that helps babies self‑settle. Most children stop on their own between 2 and 4 years of age.
Prolonged sucking habits (beyond age 4) can affect the alignment of teeth and the shape of the jaw. It may cause:
Praise them when they stop
The habits children learn early often stick with them for life. Here’s how to build a strong foundation.
Tap water in most areas of Melbourne contains fluoride, which strengthens developing teeth. Encourage water as the drink of choice between meals.
Children learn by watching. Let them see you brushing your own teeth, flossing, and attending your dental check‑ups.
See your dentist if you notice:
Starting early sets your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. From wiping gums before teeth appear to supervising brushing until they’re capable, your involvement makes all the difference.
Regular dental visits from an early age help catch small issues before they become big problems—and they help your child grow up feeling comfortable and confident in the dentist’s chair.
If you’re in Hawthorn or the surrounding suburbs—including Kew, Camberwell, and Richmond—we’d love to meet your family. At Dental Clinique, we specialise in gentle, child‑friendly care that makes visits a positive experience.
Ready to start your child’s dental journey? Book a consultation at Dental Clinique today.
Book Online or call us on 03 9826 5515
This information is general in nature and does not constitute individual dental advice. Results and outcomes vary between individuals. Always consult with a qualified dental practitioner about your specific circumstances.
Written by Dr Shivam Rishi, (DEN0002881205: Registered Dentist, General Registration)
