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're still developing in the womb. So, it is essential for women that are pregnant to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of these unborn child. Additionally, expectant mothers should be observed by a dentist for a complete exam to deal with any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can affect 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?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a young child should visit a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes within their mouth (this is typically between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps you to establish a dental home for your child – a location 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 examination 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 group 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) will start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your youngster 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 easier, and are prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or employing a bottle since it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth is available in and other resources of nutrition for your infant have already been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to fall asleep with a jar containing anything but water. In reality, children must certanly be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make certain they don't drink higher than a cup daily, they drink it over a short time period (not throughout the day), and it is given with meals or snack (not by itself). Remember, WATER IS BEST for the 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. Whenever your child's teeth begin to come in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under the age of 3 years, use no more than a “smear” amount of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, work with a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to recognize that children under the age of 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth well, so be sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your child 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 ahead in at about 6 months old, although the timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth should be present by 3 years of age. Your youngster will miss 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 son or daughter may involve 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 continues on beyond age 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 consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
