Pediatric Dentist Near Me
Infant Dentistry in Tustin - Orange County CA
Baby teeth (also called 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 important for women that are pregnant to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of the unborn child. In addition, pregnant women should be seen by way of a dentist for a whole exam to deal with any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Guidelines some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When 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 visit a dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should view a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes present in 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 youngster – a spot 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 examination to ensure that 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 youngster 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 called baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) may start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your youngster sees a pediatric dentist, the better the possibility of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food quicker, and are more likely to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or employing a bottle as it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth will come in and other resources of nutrition for your baby have already been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to drift off with a package containing anything but water. In fact, children should really be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the quantity of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your child consumes. So, if your child wants juice, make certain they don't drink more than a cup daily, they drink it over a quick time frame (not through the day), and that it is given with a meal 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. When your child's teeth begin to come in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under age 3 years, use no more than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over age 3, make use of a “pea-size” amount of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to understand that children under age 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth very well, so be sure to help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your youngster to smile with full confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place whenever 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 timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth should 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 into the mouth, the gums could become tender and your youngster 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 could 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 issues that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
