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 are still developing in the womb. So, it is important for expectant mothers to consume a nutritious diet with enough vitamins and minerals to make certain proper development of the unborn child. Additionally, pregnant women should be seen by a dentist for a whole exam to handle 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. If you have any extra questions relating to your child's teeth and gums, make sure to 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 helps to set up a dental home for your child – a spot where your child's dental needs/issues could be addressed and questions/concerns that you have as a parent may be answered.
The pediatric dentist will perform an exam to ensure that you will find no tooth or gum issues present. Furthermore, the pediatric dentist will inform you of early prevention techniques to help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Remember, helping your youngster reach good oral health is a team effort that involves the dentist and parents, so start early!
What kind 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) will start the moment a child's first tooth becomes present. Thus, the sooner your youngster sees a pediatric dentist, the greater the opportunity of preventing dental problems including cavities.
Remember, children with healthy teeth are less likely to have dental pain, can chew food more easily, and are more prone to show off their beautiful smile!
What should I find out about nursing or using a bottle as it relates to my child's oral health?
Once the initial baby tooth is available in and other sources of nutrition for your child have been introduced, at-will breast-feeding should no further occur. Furthermore, don't allow your infant to drift off with a container containing anything but water. Actually, children ought to 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 son or daughter wants juice, make certain they don't drink greater than a cup per day, they drink it over a brief period of time (not throughout the day), and that it's 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 smooth 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 age 3 years, use no more than a “smear” level of fluoridated toothpaste. For kids over age 3, work with a “pea-size” quantity of fluoridated toothpaste.
It is very important to realize that children under the age of 6 years are unable to brush and floss their teeth perfectly, so be sure to help your youngster brush and floss their teeth. Doing this will help prevent dental cavities and allow your child to smile confidently!
Any advice on teething?
Teething happens when 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 old, even though timing varies among children. All your child's 20 baby teeth ought to 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 into the mouth, the gums may become tender and your child 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 on beyond age 3 years could 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 fix any tooth or bite problems that may have arisen consequently of the thumb/finger sucking habit.
