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 are still developing in the womb. So, it's important for expectant mothers to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of these unborn child. Additionally, women that are pregnant should be viewed with a dentist for an entire exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Guidelines some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you yourself 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?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes within their mouth (this is usually between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment really helps to set up a dental home for your son or daughter – a spot where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you have as a parent can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to ensure there are no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, 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 group effort that involves both the dentist and parents, so start early!
What type of dental problems could my baby have?
The main element to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can begin when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your child sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the chance of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, can chew food quicker, and are more prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or using a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth is available in and other sources of nutrition for your baby have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, don't allow your child to get to sleep with a bottle containing anything but water. In reality, children must be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your child consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make certain they don't drink higher than a cup daily, they drink it over a brief time frame (not through the day), and that it is given with meals 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 start cleaning your child's gums with a smooth toothbrush or wet cloth when they are born. When your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under the age of 3 years, use no more than a “smear” number of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, make use of a “pea-size” amount of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to understand that children under the age of 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth well, so make sure you help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. Doing so may help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with full confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething occurs as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first group of teeth usually begin in the future in at about 6 months of age, even though the timing varies among children. All of 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 to the mouth, the gums may 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 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 goes on beyond age 3 years may cause teeth in the future in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to handle the habit, and ways to fix any tooth or bite problems that could have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
