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're still developing in the womb. So, it's essential for pregnant women to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of these unborn child. Additionally, expectant mothers should be seen by way of a dentist for an entire exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can affect their unborn child. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. If you have any additional questions relating to your child's teeth and gums, make sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to view a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes within their mouth (this is typically between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment really helps to begin a dental home for your youngster – a location where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to make sure that there are no tooth or gum issues present. Additionally, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to help 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 key to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can begin the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your youngster 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 easier, and are prone to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or using a bottle because it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth is available in and other sourced elements of nutrition for your baby have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to drift off with a jar containing anything but water. In fact, children should really 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 youngster wants juice, make sure they don't drink more than a cup per day, they drink it over a brief period of time (not through the entire day), and that it's given with dinner 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 begin cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they are born. Whenever your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no higher than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, use a “pea-size” number of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to realize that children under age 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so make sure you help your child brush and floss their teeth. Doing this may help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place whenever your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first pair of teeth usually begin ahead in at about 6 months old, although the timing varies among children. All of your child's 20 baby teeth ought to 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 may become tender and your son or daughter may have some discomfort. Parents may consider using 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 beyond age 3 years may cause teeth ahead in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to manage the habit, and ways to correct any tooth or bite problems that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
