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 is important for expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of the unborn child. In addition, expectant mothers should be observed with a dentist for an entire exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Guidelines 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 view a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a young child should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes contained in their mouth (this is usually between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps to set up a dental home for your youngster – a spot where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you have as a parent could be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to ensure there are 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 son or daughter reach good oral health is a team effort that involves both 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 known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) will start the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your child sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the possibility of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, can chew food more easily, and are more prone to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or employing a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth is available in and other resources of nutrition for your infant have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, don't allow your child to drift off with a bottle containing anything but water. In reality, children must be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally, minimize the amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, ensure they cannot drink greater than a cup each day, they drink it over a short time frame (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're born. As soon as your child's teeth begin to come in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under age 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, work with a “pea-size” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to understand that children under the age of 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth well, so make sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with full confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place 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 must be present by 3 years of age. Your child will miss 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 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 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 in the future 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 conditions that may have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
