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 with their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is very important to women that are pregnant to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of their unborn child. Furthermore, pregnant women should be seen by a dentist for a whole 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. When you yourself 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 visit a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes within their mouth (this is normally between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps to establish a dental home for your child – a spot 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 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 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 kind of dental problems could my baby have?
The key to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously called baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your youngster sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the opportunity of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less inclined to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food quicker, and are prone to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or employing a bottle as it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth will come in and other sources of nutrition for your child have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, don't allow your child to drift off with a package containing anything but water. Actually, children should be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally, minimize the quantity of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your child consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, ensure they do not drink higher than a cup each day, they drink it over a brief time period (not throughout the day), and it is given with a meal 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. As soon as 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” number of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over the age of 3, use a “pea-size” amount of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to recognize that children under age 6 years are incapable of brush and floss their teeth well, so make sure you help your child brush and floss their teeth. This will help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place whenever your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first group of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months of age, even though 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 miss their other baby teeth between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt to the mouth, the gums could become tender and your son or daughter 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 can cause teeth ahead 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 issues that might have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
