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 making use of their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is very important to expectant mothers to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of the unborn child. In addition, women that are pregnant 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. 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 view a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a young child 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 begin a dental home for your son or daughter – a location where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you have as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to ensure you will find no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your son or daughter reach good oral health is a team effort that involves both 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 known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) will start when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your child sees a pediatric dentist, the higher 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 because it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth comes in and other resources of nutrition for your child have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your baby to drift off with a container containing anything but water. In fact, children must be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally, minimize the amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your child wants juice, make certain they do not drink greater than a cup each day, they drink it over a quick time period (not through the 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 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 age 3 years, use no higher than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, make use of a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is very important to realize that children under the age of 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so be sure to help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. Doing this can help prevent dental cavities and allow your youngster to smile with full confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething happens whenever 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 between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt in to the mouth, the gums could become tender and your son or daughter may involve 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 the age of 3 years may cause teeth ahead in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to control the habit, and ways to improve any tooth or bite problems that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
