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 using their mother when they're still developing in the womb. So, it is very important to pregnant women to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of their unborn child. Additionally, pregnant women should be observed with a dentist for an entire exam to handle any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you have any additional questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, make sure you ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to visit a dentist?
In line with 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 normally between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps you to set up a dental home for your son or daughter – a place where your child's dental needs/issues can be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an examination to ensure that there are no tooth or gum issues present. Additionally, 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 the dentist and parents, so start early!
What type of dental problems could my baby have?
The main element to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can start the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your child sees a pediatric dentist, the better the chance of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, have the ability to chew food easier, and are more prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or utilizing a bottle as it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth will come in and other sources of nutrition for your child have now been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to get to sleep with a container containing anything but water. Actually, children should be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your son or daughter consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, make certain they cannot drink more than a cup each day, 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 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're born. Whenever your child's teeth begin to come in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over the age of 3, work with a “pea-size” level of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is important to understand that children under age 6 years are incapable of brush and floss their teeth well, so make sure to help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. This will help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile with full confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething takes place as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first group of teeth usually begin in the future in at about 6 months of age, even though timing varies among children. Your entire child's 20 baby teeth must certanly 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 to the mouth, the gums can become tender and your son or daughter may possess 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 on 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 improve any tooth or bite issues that might have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
