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 are still developing in the womb. So, it's important for women that are pregnant to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of the unborn child. Additionally, pregnant women should be observed by a dentist for a complete exam to deal with any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Here 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 to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to visit a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a young child should visit 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 really helps to establish a dental home for your son or daughter – a spot 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 make sure that there are no tooth or gum issues present. In addition, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to hold 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 key 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 sooner your son or daughter sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the opportunity of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food easier, and are more prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or employing a bottle as it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth is available in and other resources of nutrition for your baby have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to drift off with a container 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 youngster wants juice, ensure they do not drink greater than a cup daily, they drink it over a brief time frame (not through the entire day), and it is given with meals 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 smooth toothbrush or wet cloth when they are 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 higher than a “smear” amount of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over the age of 3, work with a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to realize that children under age 6 years are incapable of brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so be sure to help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. Doing so will help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile with confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething occurs when 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 timing varies among children. All your child's 20 baby teeth should be present by 3 years of age. Your son or daughter will lose 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 have 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 on beyond age 3 years can cause teeth to come in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to control the habit, and ways to fix any tooth or bite conditions that may have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
