Pediatric Dentist Near Me
Infant Dentistry in Tustin - Orange County CA
Baby teeth (also known as primary teeth) begin forming during pregnancy. Thus, a child's oral health starts using their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is very important to expectant mothers to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of these unborn child. Additionally, women that are pregnant should be observed by a dentist for a complete exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you have any extra questions relating to your child's teeth and gums, be sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes present in their mouth (this is normally between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps you to set up a dental home for your son or daughter – a location where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to make sure that you can find no tooth or gum issues present. Additionally, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to hold your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your youngster reach good oral health is a group effort that involves both the dentist and parents, so start early!
What kind of dental problems could my baby have?
The main element to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) will start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your son or daughter 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 quicker, and are more likely to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or using a bottle because it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth will come in and other resources of nutrition for your child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to fall asleep with a package containing anything but water. In reality, children should 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 child wants juice, make certain they do not drink more than a cup each day, they drink it over a quick time frame (not through the entire day), and that it is given with a meal 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 are 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” amount of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, work with a “pea-size” number of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to understand that children under age 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure you help your child brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with confidence!
Any advice on 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 of age, even though the timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth should 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 into the mouth, the gums could become tender and your youngster may involve some discomfort. Parents may consider employing 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 could cause teeth in the future in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to control the habit, and ways to correct any tooth or bite conditions that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
