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 making use of their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is very important to expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of their unborn child. In addition, expectant mothers should be seen by way of a dentist for a complete exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference their unborn child. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you have any extra questions relating to your child's teeth and gums, make sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should see 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 really helps to set up a dental home for your son or daughter – a spot where your child's dental needs/issues can be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent could be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to ensure you will find no tooth or gum issues present. In addition, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your child 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 when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your child sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the opportunity of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less inclined to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food quicker, and are more likely to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or employing a bottle since it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth is available in and other resources of nutrition for your infant have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your baby to get to sleep with a package 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 child consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, make sure they do not drink higher than a cup daily, they drink it over a short time period (not through the day), and that it's given with dinner 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. As soon as 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 more than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, use a “pea-size” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to realize that children under age 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure you help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. Doing this will help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile confidently!
Any advice on teething?
Teething happens when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first pair of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months of age, even though the timing varies among children. All your child's 20 baby teeth should be present by 3 years of age. Your child will lose 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 have some discomfort. Parents may consider utilizing 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 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 issues that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
