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 these unborn child. Furthermore, pregnant women should be seen with a dentist for an entire exam to address 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 yourself have any additional questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, make sure you 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 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 really helps to set up a dental home for your child – a location 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 a test to ensure you can find 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 son or daughter reach good oral health is a team effort that involves 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) may start when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your child 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, are able to chew food quicker, and are prone to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or utilizing 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 child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to fall asleep with a jar containing anything but water. In reality, children must certanly 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 youngster consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, make sure they cannot drink more than a cup daily, they drink it over a short time period (not throughout the day), and that it's 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 are born. Whenever your child's teeth begin in the future in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no more than a “smear” number of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over the age of 3, work with a “pea-size” number of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is 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. Doing so will help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile confidently!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething occurs when your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first pair of teeth usually begin ahead in at about 6 months old, even though timing varies among children. All of your child's 20 baby teeth should really be present by 3 years of age. Your son or daughter will lose their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt in to the mouth, the gums could become tender and your child may have 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 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 handle the habit, and ways to fix any tooth or bite problems that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
