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 making use of their mother when they are still developing in the womb. So, it is important for pregnant women to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of these unborn child. Furthermore, pregnant women should be observed with 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. 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 visit 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 normally between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps to establish a dental home for your youngster – a location where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent could be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to make sure that there are no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to hold 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 kind of dental problems could my baby have?
The key 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 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 more prone 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 very first baby tooth will come in and other sources of nutrition for your baby have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing anything but water. Actually, children should really 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 sure they don't drink higher than a cup daily, they drink it over a short period of time (not throughout the day), and that 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 start cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. Whenever your child's teeth begin in the future in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under age 3 years, use no more than a “smear” amount of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, use 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 very well, so be sure to help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. Doing so may help prevent dental cavities and allow your youngster to smile with confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething occurs when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first set of teeth usually begin ahead 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 child will miss their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt into the mouth, the gums can become tender and your youngster 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 goes on beyond age 3 years may cause teeth to come 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 may have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
