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 are still developing in the womb. So, it's very important to expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make sure proper development of their unborn child. In addition, women that are pregnant should be seen with a dentist for a whole exam to address any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can impact their unborn child. Guidelines some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When 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 visit a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a young child should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes present in their mouth (this is usually 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 location where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you've as a parent could be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to ensure that there are no tooth or gum issues present. In addition, 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 both dentist and parents, so start early!
What kind of dental problems could my baby have?
The main element to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously called baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can begin as soon as a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your son or daughter sees a pediatric dentist, the higher 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 easier, and are more prone to showcase their beautiful smile!
What should I learn about nursing or employing a bottle since it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the very first baby tooth comes in and other sourced elements of nutrition for your infant have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no more occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to drift off with a bottle containing anything but water. In reality, children should 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 certain they do not drink greater than a cup per day, they drink it over a short time frame (not through the entire day), and that it is given with a meal 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 begin cleaning your child's gums with a soft toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. When your child's teeth begin to come in, you can start brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For children under the age of 3 years, use no greater than a “smear” number of fluoridated toothpaste. For children over age 3, use a “pea-size” number of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to realize that children under the age of 6 years are not able to brush and floss their teeth very well, so make sure to help your son or daughter brush and floss their teeth. Doing this can help prevent dental cavities and allow your youngster to smile confidently!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething takes place whenever 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 child will lose their other baby teeth involving the ages of 6 and 12 years.
When teeth erupt in to the mouth, the gums can become tender and your youngster may have some discomfort. Parents may consider employing 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 can 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 improve any tooth or bite conditions that might have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
