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'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 these unborn child. Furthermore, pregnant women should be viewed with a dentist for a whole exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact 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, make 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 young child should see 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 really helps to establish a dental home for your son or daughter – a place where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to ensure 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 child 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 key to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) will start the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your son or daughter sees a pediatric dentist, the higher 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 quicker, and are more prone to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or employing a bottle because it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth comes in and other sourced elements of nutrition for your child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, don't allow your infant to get to sleep with a bottle containing anything but water. In fact, children must certanly 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 child consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, ensure they cannot drink higher than a cup per day, they drink it over a quick period of time (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 soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. Whenever your child's teeth begin to come in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under age 3 years, use no higher than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, make use of a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is very important to realize that children under age 6 years are incapable of brush and floss their teeth very well, so make sure you help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. This will help prevent dental cavities and allow your youngster to smile with confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething happens as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first group of teeth usually begin ahead in at about 6 months of age, although the timing varies among children. Your entire 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 may become tender and your child may have 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 the age of 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 fix any tooth or bite issues that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
