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's important for women that are pregnant to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of the unborn child. Furthermore, pregnant women should be seen by way of a dentist for an entire exam to deal with 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. When you yourself have any extra questions relating to your child's teeth and gums, make sure you ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to visit a dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should view a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes contained in their mouth (this is normally between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment really helps to set up a dental home for your son or daughter – a place where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an examination to ensure there are no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your child reach good oral health is a team effort that involves both the dentist and parents, so start early!
What sort of dental problems could my baby have?
The key to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can start when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your child sees a pediatric dentist, the better the possibility of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less inclined to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food quicker, and are more likely to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or using a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth is available in and other sources of nutrition for your infant have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, don't allow your baby to get to sleep with a bottle containing anything but water. In fact, children should really be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your youngster consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make sure they cannot drink more than a cup each day, they drink it over a brief time frame (not through the day), and that it is given with meals or snack (not by itself). Remember, WATER IS BEST for your child's teeth!
When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?
You can begin cleaning your child's gums with a smooth toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. When your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under age 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over age 3, work with a “pea-size” amount of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is very important to understand that children under the age of 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure to help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. Doing this will help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething occurs whenever your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first set of teeth usually begin in the future in at about 6 months old, even though the timing varies among children. All of your child's 20 baby teeth must be present by 3 years of age. Your youngster will lose their other baby teeth between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt to the mouth, the gums may become tender and your child may involve 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 goes on beyond the age of 3 years can cause teeth ahead in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to handle the habit, and ways to fix any tooth or bite problems that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
