From sleepless teething nights to first trips to the dentist, there’s a lot of advice flying around about baby teeth – and not all of it is true. Some common myths can quietly put children at risk of tooth decay, pain and even problems with their adult teeth later on.
Here are the baby teeth myths parents really need to stop believing, and what the evidence actually says.
Myth 1: “Baby teeth don’t matter because they fall out anyway”
This is probably the most damaging myth of all. Baby teeth (also called milk or primary teeth) are crucial for:
- Chewing and proper nutrition
- Clear speech development
- Guiding adult teeth into the correct position
- Supporting normal jaw and facial development
If baby teeth are lost too early due to decay or infection, neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap. That can cause crowding, crooked adult teeth and the need for orthodontic treatment in future. Untreated decay also causes pain, sleep disturbance and difficulties eating – all of which affect a child’s overall wellbeing.
Truth: Baby teeth absolutely matter, and they deserve the same care as adult teeth.
Myth 2: “You don’t need to brush until they have lots of teeth”
In reality, you should start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. UK guidance recommends using a baby toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste from the moment that first tooth erupts.
Brushing twice a day, especially last thing at night, removes plaque and gives baby teeth regular protection from fluoride. Babies who get into a brushing routine early tend to accept toothbrushing more easily as toddlers, too.
Truth: The first tooth means the first brush. It’s never “too early” once teeth are present.
Myth 3: “Children don’t need a dentist until school age”
Waiting until a child is three or four for their first dental check-up is out of date. The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry’s Dental Check by One campaign recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming through.
NHS advice also supports taking children to the dentist when their first milk teeth appear, or before they turn one. Early visits:
- Help children get used to the dental environment
- Allow dentists to spot early signs of decay
- Give parents tailored advice on brushing, diet and fluoride
Truth: A dental visit by age one is ideal – not “over the top”.
Myth 4: “Teething causes high fever and diarrhoea”
Teething is often blamed for almost every symptom a baby has, from high temperatures to severe diarrhoea. Research shows that while teething can cause mild irritability, drooling and sore gums, it does not directly cause significant fever, diarrhoea or serious illness.
The danger is that genuine infections get missed because everything is put down to “just teething”. If your baby has a high fever, persistent diarrhoea, is very unwell or you’re worried, they should be checked by a doctor.
Truth: Teething discomfort is real, but serious symptoms usually have another cause and need medical attention.
Myth 5: “Fluoride toothpaste is unsafe for babies”
Fluoride has a long, evidence-based track record of preventing tooth decay. UK oral health guidance is clear: children should use fluoride toothpaste, but in the right amount and strength for their age. A smear for under-threes and a pea-sized amount for older children is recommended, with parents doing the brushing.
Swallowing a large amount of toothpaste regularly isn’t ideal, which is why supervision is so important. But avoiding fluoride altogether leaves baby teeth far more vulnerable to decay, especially with today’s high-sugar diets.
Truth: Used correctly, fluoride toothpaste is safe, protective and essential for healthy baby teeth.
Support your child’s smile with Latrobe Family Dental
If you’re unsure what to believe about your child’s teeth, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to figure it out yourself. At Latrobe Family Dental, our friendly dental team can:
- Check your baby or toddler’s teeth
- Advise on teething, brushing and diet
- Spot early signs of problems before they become painful
Ready to put the myths to bed and give your child the best start?
Book a children’s dental check-up at Latrobe Family Dental today and let us help protect their smile from the very first tooth.
You can book a dental appointment online or contact us using the contact details below.
Latrobe Family Dental
Address: 23 Breed Street, Traralgon, Victoria, 3844
Phone Number: (03) 5174 6800