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's very important to expectant mothers to eat a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development of these unborn child. Additionally, pregnant women should be observed by a dentist for a whole exam to deal with any cavities or gum disease as these dental related issues can affect their unborn child. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding important topics affecting your child's teeth and gums. When you have any extra questions regarding your child's teeth and gums, make sure to ask Dr. Baker.
When should I take my child to see a dentist?
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a kid should visit a pediatric dentist when their first tooth becomes contained in their mouth (this is usually between 6 and 12 months of age) or by their first birthday. This appointment helps you to establish a dental home for your son or daughter – a spot 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 an exam to ensure you will find 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 youngster reach good oral health is a group effort that involves the dentist and parents, so start early!
What type of dental problems could my baby have?
The important thing to fighting dental disease is prevention. Early Childhood Caries (previously called baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries) can start when a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the earlier your child sees a pediatric dentist, the higher the possibility of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely 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 as it pertains to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth will come in and other resources of nutrition for your infant have already been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no longer occur. Furthermore, do not allow your infant to fall asleep with a container containing anything but water. In fact, children should be weaned from the bottle between 12 and 14 months of age. In general, minimize the total amount of juice and other sugar-containing drinks your child consumes. So, if your child wants juice, make certain they cannot drink more than a cup per day, they drink it over a short time frame (not throughout the day), and that it's given with meals 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 begin cleaning your child's gums with a smooth toothbrush or wet cloth when they're born. As soon as your child's teeth begin ahead in, you can begin brushing their teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste. For kids under the age of 3 years, use no more than a “smear” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over the age of 3, use a “pea-size” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is essential to recognize that children under the age of 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth well, so make sure to help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. This may help prevent dental cavities and allow your son or daughter to smile with confidence!
Any suggestions about teething?
Teething happens 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 the timing varies among children. All of 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 son or daughter may involve 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 can cause teeth to come in crooked or create bite problems. Your child's pediatric dentist will discuss ways to manage the habit, and ways to correct any tooth or bite conditions that could have arisen as a result of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
