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're still developing in the womb. So, it is important for women that are pregnant to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of their unborn child. Furthermore, expectant mothers should be seen by way of a dentist for a complete exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you yourself have any additional questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, make sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should view 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 really helps to establish a dental home for your youngster – a place where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you have as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to ensure you will find 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 sort of dental problems could my baby have?
The important thing to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can begin when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your youngster sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the chance of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less inclined to have dental pain, can chew food easier, and are more likely to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or using a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth comes in and other sources of nutrition for your baby have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, don't allow your child to get to sleep with a bottle containing anything but water. In reality, children should really be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your youngster consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make sure they don't drink higher than a cup per day, they drink it over a quick period of time (not through the entire day), and that it's given with a meal 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 start cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they are born. When your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under age 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” number of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, use 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 very well, so make sure you help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. Doing this will help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with full confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething happens when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first pair of teeth usually begin ahead in at about 6 months old, even though 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 between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt into the mouth, the gums could become tender and your youngster may possess some discomfort. Parents may consider employing 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 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 problems that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
