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 using their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is very important to expectant mothers to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of the unborn child. Additionally, women that are pregnant should be observed by way of a dentist for an entire exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact 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 regarding your child's teeth and gums, be sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to visit a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a 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 establish 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 may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to make sure that you will 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 son or daughter reach good oral health is a team effort that involves both the dentist and parents, so start early!
What kind of dental problems could my baby have?
The important thing 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 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, can chew food more easily, and are more prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or using a bottle because it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth will come in and other sources of nutrition for your infant have already been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, don't allow your infant to drift off with a jar containing anything but water. Actually, children must certanly be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your child consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make sure they cannot drink greater than a cup per day, they drink it over a quick time frame (not throughout the day), and that it is given with dinner 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 are born. Whenever your child's teeth begin in the future in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under the age of 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, use a “pea-size” number of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to recognize that children under age 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth well, so make sure to help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. This may help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with full 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 in the future in at about 6 months of age, although the timing varies among children. All your 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 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 may cause teeth to come in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to handle the habit, and ways to correct any tooth or bite problems that could have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
