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 very important to expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of the unborn child. In addition, pregnant women should be observed by way of a dentist for an entire exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you yourself have any extra questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, be sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see a dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should see 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 begin a dental home for your child – a spot 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 ensure you will find no tooth or gum issues present. Additionally, 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 group effort that involves both dentist and parents, so start early!
What type of dental problems could my baby have?
The important thing to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can begin as soon as 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 more easily, and are more likely to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or employing a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth comes in and other resources of nutrition for your baby have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to drift off with a container containing anything but water. In fact, children must be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally speaking, minimize the quantity of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your child consumes. So, if your child wants juice, make sure they don't drink higher than a cup daily, they drink it over a quick period of time (not throughout the day), and that it's 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 are born. As soon as your child's teeth begin in the future in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under the age of 3 years, use no higher than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, use a “pea-size” amount of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to understand that children under age 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth. Doing this can help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile confidently!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething occurs when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first group of teeth usually begin in the future in at about 6 months old, even though timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth should be present by 3 years of age. Your son or daughter will miss 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 child may have some discomfort. Parents may consider utilizing 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 continues 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 handle the habit, and ways to fix any tooth or bite issues that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
