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 making use of their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it's essential for expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of their unborn child. Furthermore, women that are pregnant should be viewed by way of a dentist for a complete exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Guidelines 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 view a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should see 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 helps you to set up a dental home for your youngster – a spot where your child's dental needs/issues can be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to ensure that 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 child 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 important thing to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can begin the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your child sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the chance 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 learn about nursing or using a bottle as it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth will come in and other resources of nutrition for your child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, don't allow your infant to drift off with a jar containing anything but water. Actually, children should be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally speaking, minimize the amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make sure they cannot drink higher than a cup per day, they drink it over a short time period (not throughout the day), and 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 begin 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 the age of 3 years, use no higher than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, work with a “pea-size” number of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to understand that children under the age of 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make 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 confidently!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place 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 old, although the timing varies among children. All your child's 20 baby teeth must be present by 3 years of age. Your youngster will miss their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt to the mouth, the gums could become tender and your youngster 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 beyond the age of 3 years may 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 improve any tooth or bite issues that may have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
