Pediatric Dentist Near Me
Infant Dentistry in Tustin - Orange County CA
Baby teeth (also referred to 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's essential for women that are pregnant to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of their unborn child. In addition, expectant mothers should be observed by a dentist for a whole exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Listed here are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. If you have any additional questions relating to your child's teeth and gums, make sure you ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes contained in 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 location where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to ensure that you can 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 sort of dental problems could my baby have?
The key to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can begin as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your son or daughter sees a pediatric dentist, the better the opportunity of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less inclined to have dental pain, can chew food more easily, and are more likely to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or employing a bottle as it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth comes in and other sources of nutrition for your baby have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to drift off with a jar containing anything but water. In fact, children should be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, make sure they do not drink higher than a cup per day, they drink it over a brief period of time (not throughout the day), and it is given with a meal 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. When your child's teeth begin in the future in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under age 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” amount of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, work with a “pea-size” number of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to realize that children under age 6 years are incapable of brush and floss their teeth well, so be sure to help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. Doing so can help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile confidently!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first group of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months old, even though the timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth ought to be present by 3 years of age. Your child will lose their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt to the mouth, the gums may become tender and your youngster may involve 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 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 handle the habit, and ways to improve any tooth or bite issues that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
