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 are still developing in the womb. So, it's very important to women that are pregnant to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of their unborn child. Additionally, expectant mothers should be seen by way of a dentist for an entire exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Here 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 to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to visit a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a young child should visit a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes present in their mouth (this is typically between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment really 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 can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to ensure you can find no tooth or gum issues present. In addition, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your youngster reach good oral health is a team effort that involves the dentist and parents, so start early!
What sort 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) can 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, are able to chew food easier, and are more prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or using a bottle because it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth is available in and other resources of nutrition for your baby have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to drift off with a package containing anything but water. In fact, children must certanly be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, make certain they cannot drink greater than a cup per day, they drink it over a quick period of time (not throughout the day), and that it is given with dinner 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 start cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. When your child's teeth begin in the future in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under age 3 years, use no more than a “smear” number of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, make use of a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important 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. Doing so may help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with full confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething happens as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first group of teeth usually begin ahead in at about 6 months old, even though the timing varies among children. All of your child's 20 baby teeth must certanly be present by 3 years of age. Your child will lose their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt in to the mouth, the gums could become tender and your youngster may possess some discomfort. Parents may consider using a teething ring, an iced/wet wash-cloth, or rub the baby's gums with a clear 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 could cause teeth to come 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 conditions that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
