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 with their mother when they are still developing in the womb. So, it is essential for women that are pregnant to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of the unborn child. Additionally, women that are pregnant should be viewed by way of a dentist for a whole exam to address 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. When you yourself 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?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should view a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes present 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 place 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 a test to ensure 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 the 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 when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your child 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, can chew food quicker, and are prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or employing a bottle as it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth comes in and other resources of nutrition for your child have already been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, don't allow your infant to get to sleep with a jar containing anything but water. Actually, children ought to be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally speaking, minimize the quantity of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, ensure they cannot drink greater than a cup per day, they drink it over a quick period of time (not throughout the day), and that it's 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. Whenever 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” amount of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, make use of a “pea-size” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to realize that children under age 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth well, so be sure to help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with full confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first set of teeth usually begin ahead in at about 6 months of age, although the timing varies among children. All your child's 20 baby teeth should really 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 in to the mouth, the gums can become tender and your son or daughter may involve some discomfort. Parents may consider utilizing a teething ring, an iced/wet wash-cloth, or rub the baby's gums with a clean 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 may cause teeth in the future in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to control the habit, and ways to correct any tooth or bite problems that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
