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 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 make sure proper development of their unborn child. Additionally, pregnant women should be observed with a dentist for an entire 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. If you have any additional 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?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should visit a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes present in their mouth (this is usually between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment really helps to begin a dental home for your son or daughter – a place 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 you will find no tooth or gum issues present. Additionally, 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 the dentist and parents, so start early!
What sort of dental problems could my baby have?
The main element to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can start the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your son or daughter sees a pediatric dentist, the better the possibility of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, are able to chew food easier, and are more likely to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or using a bottle because it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth will come in and other sources of nutrition for your child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to fall asleep with a container containing anything but water. Actually, children must certanly 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 child consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, make sure they don't drink more than a cup per day, they drink it over a quick time period (not through the entire day), and that 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 soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they are born. Whenever your child's teeth begin ahead 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 age 3, make use of a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to recognize that children under age 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth well, so be sure to help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. Doing this will help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile with confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething occurs 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. All your child's 20 baby teeth should 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 may become tender and your child 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 continues on beyond age 3 years could 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 correct any tooth or bite conditions that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
