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's essential for women that are pregnant to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of the unborn child. Additionally, expectant mothers should be observed with a dentist for a complete exam to address 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 to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to view a dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should view 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 begin a dental home for your son or daughter – a place where your child's dental needs/issues can be addressed and questions/concerns that you have as a parent may 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 youngster 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 when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your youngster 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 easier, and are prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or employing a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth will come in and other sources of nutrition for your child have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, don't allow your baby to drift off with a jar containing anything but water. Actually, children must be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally, minimize the quantity of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, ensure they cannot drink more than a cup per day, they drink it over a quick time frame (not through the day), and it is 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. Whenever your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no more than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over age 3, work with a “pea-size” level 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 perfectly, so be sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth. Doing so can help prevent dental cavities and allow your youngster to smile with confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place 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, even though the timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth should really be present by 3 years of age. Your son or daughter will lose their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt in to the mouth, the gums could become tender and your youngster may have some discomfort. Parents may consider utilizing 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 can cause teeth in the future in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to manage the habit, and ways to fix any tooth or bite conditions that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
