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 are still developing in the womb. So, it is essential for pregnant women to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of these unborn child. Additionally, women that are pregnant should be observed by 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 additional questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, make sure you ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to view a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should view 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 you to set up 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've as a parent can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an examination to make sure that you will find no tooth or gum issues present. Additionally, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your youngster reach good oral health is a team effort that involves both 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 called baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) will start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your son or daughter sees a pediatric dentist, the better 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 prone to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or using a bottle because it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth will come in and other sourced elements of nutrition for your child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to fall asleep with a bottle containing anything but water. Actually, children must be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the quantity of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your youngster consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, ensure they don't drink higher than a cup each day, they drink it over a quick period of time (not through the entire 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 begin cleaning your child's gums with a smooth toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. When your child's teeth begin to come in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” number of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over age 3, use a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to recognize that children under age 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth very well, so make sure you help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. Doing this may help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile with confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething happens whenever 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 ought to 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 can become tender and your child may possess some discomfort. Parents may consider using a teething ring, an iced/wet wash-cloth, or rub the baby's gums with a clean 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 the age of 3 years can cause teeth to come 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 issues that may have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
