What is an eruption of a tooth? How do you know when a tooth will erupt?
When a tooth is ready to erupt, it will push through the gum tissue. This process is known as an eruption. Most teeth erupt between 6 months and one year old but can erupt at any time. If you are conscious about your child’s teeth, schedule a dental appointment to have the dentist take a look. They will be able to tell you if everything is proceeding normally. In the meantime, here are some tips for taking care of your child’s teeth during this time.
What is an eruption of a tooth, and what are the signs that a tooth is erupting
An eruption of a tooth is when the tooth breaks through the gum line. It is a process that starts before birth and continues until all the teeth have come in. The first teeth to erupt are usually the bottom front teeth, followed by the top front teeth. This process usually starts around six months but can vary from child to child.
How do you know when a tooth will erupt?
A few telltale signs indicate when a tooth is about to erupt. For baby teeth, the first sign is usually a colour change. The tooth will become more visible as it pushes through the gum line. In addition, the gum may become swollen and red around the tooth. For adult teeth, the most common sign is pain. As the tooth starts to push through the gum, it can put pressure on the nerve endings and cause discomfort. However, some children do not undergo any pain at all. If you are unsure whether or not a tooth is about to erupt, it is best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon. They will be able to take an x-ray and provide more specific guidance.
What to do if your child’s tooth is erupting early or late
Most children get their teeth in the order they appear in picture books. However, there are always a few exceptions. For example, some children’s teeth may come in early, while others may be late bloomers. So what should you do if your child’s tooth erupts early or late?
If your child’s tooth is coming in ahead of schedule, there is no need to worry. Just keep an eye on the tooth to ensure it comes in correctly, and brush it two times a day, just like any other tooth. If you notice that the tooth is not coming in evenly or appears tilted, you should contact your dentist. Early teeth are sometimes more susceptible to cavities, so check your child’s teeth regularly with a dentist.
If your child’s tooth is coming in late, there is no need to worry. Delayed tooth eruption is usually nothing to be concerned about and will correct itself over time. In the meantime, you can help the tooth along by gently pushing on it with your finger or using a wet cotton swab to wiggle it back and forth. As long as the baby tooth hasn’t fallen out, there is no need to worry about the permanent tooth underneath. It will eventually push its way through when it’s ready.
How to care for a child’s teeth during the eruption process
To care for a child’s teeth during the eruption, brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. During this period, it is also essential to floss daily to remove any food or plaque that may become trapped between the emerging teeth. In addition, avoid giving your child sugary drinks or snacks, as these can contribute to tooth decay. With proper care, your child’s teeth will stay healthy and strong through the eruption.
Tooth eruption checkup at Simply Dental Chatswood Australia
While the eruption of teeth is a normal process, there are certain situations where it may be necessary to see a dentist. For example, suppose an eruption is accompanied by fever, excessive drooling, or irritability. In that case, it may be a sign of an infection. In addition, if an adult tooth does not erupt within six months of the baby tooth falling out, it may be necessary to see a dentist to ensure the tooth is healthy and correctly positioned. Ultimately, while the eruption of teeth is a natural process, it is essential to monitor for any signs of problems so that treatment can be provided if necessary. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our dentists in Chatswood.
For you convenience we also have dentists in Willoughby.