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're still developing in the womb. So, it is essential for women that are pregnant to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of the unborn child. In addition, women that are pregnant should be seen with a dentist for an entire exam to deal with 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 visit a dentist?
Based on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a young child should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes within their mouth (this is normally between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps you to begin a dental home for your youngster – a spot where your child's dental needs/issues may be addressed and questions/concerns that you have as a parent could be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to make sure that you will find no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to help keep 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 sort of dental problems could my baby have?
The key to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) will start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your youngster sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the chance of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less inclined to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food easier, and are more likely to flaunt their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or employing a bottle as it pertains 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 already been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, don't allow your child to drift off with a container containing anything but water. In fact, children must 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 youngster wants juice, make sure they cannot drink higher than a cup daily, they drink it over a brief time period (not through the entire day), and it is given with meals 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 start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under the age of 3 years, use no more than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, make use of a “pea-size” amount of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to understand that children under the age of 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so be sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth. Doing so can help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile with confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething takes place when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first set 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 certanly 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 child may involve some discomfort. Parents may consider employing 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 to come 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 conditions that could have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
