Pediatric Dentist Near Me
Infant Dentistry in Tustin - Orange County CA
Baby teeth (also called 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 important for pregnant women to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of these unborn child. Furthermore, expectant mothers should be viewed with a dentist for a complete exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues make a difference 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 regarding 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 child should see 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 establish a dental home for your child – a place where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent can be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform a test to ensure you will find no tooth or gum issues present. In addition, 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 group 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 called baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can start as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your child sees a pediatric dentist, the better the opportunity of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less inclined to have dental pain, are able to chew food more easily, and are more prone to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I know about nursing or using a bottle as it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the first baby tooth will come in and other sourced elements of nutrition for your infant have already been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, do not allow your child to get to sleep with a container containing anything but water. In reality, children ought to be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. Generally speaking, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your child consumes. So, if your youngster wants juice, make certain they don't drink higher than a cup per day, they drink it over a short period of time (not through the 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 ahead 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” amount of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over the age of 3, make use of a “pea-size” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to realize that children under age 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth very well, so be sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth. Doing this can help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile with full confidence!
Any advice on teething?
Teething takes place as soon as your child begins getting his/her new teeth. A child's first pair of teeth usually begin to come in at about 6 months old, even though the timing varies among children. All your child's 20 baby teeth must be present by 3 years of age. Your child will miss their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt into the mouth, the gums can become tender and your youngster 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 may 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 correct any tooth or bite conditions that may have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
