Pediatric Dentist Near Me
Infant Dentistry in Tustin - Orange County CA
Baby teeth (also referred to as primary teeth) begin forming during pregnancy. Thus, a child's oral health starts with their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is important for expectant mothers to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of the unborn child. In addition, expectant mothers should be observed with a dentist for an entire exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. If you have any extra questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, make sure you ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see a dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should visit a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes present in their mouth (this is usually between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps to set up a dental home for your youngster – a place where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent could be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an examination to make sure that you can find no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your son or daughter reach good oral health is a team effort that involves both the dentist and parents, so start early!
What type of dental problems could my baby have?
The main element to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) will start the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your youngster sees a pediatric dentist, the better the chance of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, can chew food easier, and are more prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or employing a bottle since it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth comes in and other sourced elements of nutrition for your baby have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your baby to get to sleep with a jar containing anything but water. In reality, children ought to be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the quantity of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your youngster consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, ensure they cannot drink higher than a cup each day, they drink it over a short time period (not through the entire day), and that it's given with dinner or snack (not by itself). Remember, WATER IS BEST for the child's teeth!
When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?
You can begin cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. When your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over age 3, use a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to recognize that children under the age of 6 years are incapable of brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile with confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first set of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months old, even though the timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth should really be present by 3 years of age. Your child will miss their other baby teeth between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt in to the mouth, the gums may become tender and your son or daughter may have some discomfort. Parents may consider utilizing a teething ring, an iced/wet wash-cloth, or rub the baby's gums with a clean finger.
How should I address a thumb/finger sucking habit?
Thumb sucking is normal for infants and usually stops by 2 years of age. However, thumb sucking that continues on beyond age 3 years may cause teeth ahead in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to manage the habit, and ways to correct any tooth or bite issues that may have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
