Pediatric Dentist Near Me
Infant Dentistry in Tustin - Orange County CA
Baby teeth (also called 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 important for women that are pregnant to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of the unborn child. In addition, pregnant women should be observed by a dentist for a whole exam to deal with any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Listed here are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you have any extra questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, be sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to view a dentist?
Based on 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 begin a dental home for your youngster – a spot where your child's dental needs/issues can be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to ensure that you will find 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 son or daughter reach good oral health is a team effort that involves the 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) will start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner 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 more easily, and are more prone to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or employing a bottle as it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth will come in and other sources of nutrition for your child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, don't allow your baby to fall asleep with a container containing anything but water. In fact, children should 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 son or daughter consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make sure they do not drink greater than a cup per day, they drink it over a brief period of time (not throughout the day), and 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 begin cleaning your child's gums with a smooth toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. As soon as 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 more than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over age 3, work with a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to realize that children under the age of 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure to help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your youngster to smile with confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething happens as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first pair of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months of age, even though timing varies among children. All your child's 20 baby teeth ought to be present by 3 years of age. Your son or daughter will miss their other baby teeth between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt into the mouth, the gums may become tender and your child may have some discomfort. Parents may consider using 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 to come in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to manage the habit, and ways to fix any tooth or bite conditions that could have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
