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 with their mother when they are still developing in the womb. So, it is essential for expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of the unborn child. In addition, pregnant women should be viewed with a dentist for a whole exam to handle 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. When you have any extra questions relating to 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 young child 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 child – a spot 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 that you will find no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, 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 group 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) can start when 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 inclined to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food more easily, and are more prone 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 is available in and other sourced elements of nutrition for your infant have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to get to sleep with a jar containing anything but water. In fact, children must certanly be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your youngster consumes. So, if your son or daughter wants juice, ensure they don't drink greater than a cup per day, they drink it over a short time frame (not throughout the day), and that it's 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 start cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they are born. When your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can begin 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 age 3, use a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is very important to recognize that children under the age of 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth very well, so make sure you help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. This can help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile confidently!
Any advice on teething?
Teething happens when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first set of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months of age, although the timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth ought to 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 in to the mouth, the gums may 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 continues on beyond age 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 could have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
