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 using their mother when they are still developing in the womb. So, it's essential for pregnant women to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of their unborn child. Additionally, women that are pregnant should be observed by a dentist for an entire exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can affect 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 regarding your child's teeth and gums, make sure you ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see 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 helps you to establish a dental home for your son or daughter – a location where your child's dental needs/issues can be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an examination to ensure there are no tooth or gum issues present. Additionally, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to hold your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your youngster reach good oral health is a team effort that involves both the dentist and parents, so start early!
What type of dental problems could my baby have?
The important thing to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) may start the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your youngster 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 showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or employing a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth will come 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 baby to drift off with a bottle containing anything but water. In fact, children must 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 child 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 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 start cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they are born. As soon as your child's teeth begin to come in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under age 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, work with a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to understand that children under the age of 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure to help your son or daughter 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 ahead in at about 6 months of age, even though 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 into the mouth, the gums can become tender and your son or daughter may possess 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 goes on beyond age 3 years may cause teeth to come 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 may have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
