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 using their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is essential for expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of these unborn child. In addition, pregnant women should be seen with a dentist for a whole exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Listed here are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. If you 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 see a dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should view 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 helps to set up a dental home for your child – a place where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent could 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 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 type of dental problems could my baby have?
The main element to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously called 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 inclined to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food easier, and are prone to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or using 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 infant have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to fall asleep with a container containing anything but water. Actually, children should really 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 do not drink higher than a cup daily, they drink it over a quick period of time (not through the entire day), and 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 start cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they are born. As soon as your child's teeth begin to come in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no more than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over the age of 3, work with a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to understand that children under the age of 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure you help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. Doing so can help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile confidently!
Any advice on teething?
Teething happens whenever your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first set of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months old, even though the timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth must be present by 3 years of age. Your son or daughter will lose their other baby teeth between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt into the mouth, the gums can become tender and your son or daughter 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 age 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 improve any tooth or bite issues that could have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
