If your infant child has begun teething, a first visit to the dentist isn’t far behind. Choosing the right dentist for your little one can make all the difference in establishing good dental habits and health.
At KidsDental Group, we’re the infant dentist Offices Located In Reseda & Moorpark, California parents trust for all their baby dental needs. We take a complete approach to infant dentistry that goes beyond checkups and cleanings. Our mission is to help your child develop good dental hygiene and promote the right dental habits that will lead them to a beautiful, enduring set of teeth.
Beyond good dental practice, ensuring your child’s infant teeth remain healthy is an important component in developing strong permanent teeth. Regular checkups with KidsDental Group will ensure that your child’s teeth remain healthy and strong and that they develop the kind of dental habits that last a life time.
To find out more about infant dentistry or to schedule a first checkup, call KidsDental Group today!
A lifetime of good oral health begins during the first stages of life even before the first teeth emerge. Parents who are well-educated in children’s dental health can more adequately ensure that a child’s oral care needs are met. From an early age, pediatric dentists serve as partners in oral health and prevention, answering questions and providing helpful information about teething and at-home oral care.
Did you know…
that 2 in 5 children have at least one cavity by the time they go to kindergarten? In fact, early childhood caries can appear shortly after the first tooth appears. Once a baby has developed tooth decay, he or she is more likely to develop additional cavities over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child first see a dentist?
“First visit by first birthday” sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This visit will establish a dental home for your child. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future.
Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?
The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (formerly known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.
How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or using a bottle?
At-will breast-feeding should be avoided after the first primary (baby) teeth begin to erupt and other sources of nutrition have been introduced. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Drinking juice from a bottle should be avoided. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meals or at snack time.
When should bottle-feeding be stopped?
Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age.
Should I worry about thumb and finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; many stop by age 2. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crooked teeth or bite problems. If the habit continues beyond age 3, a professional evaluation is recommended. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.
When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?
The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a “smear” of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively.
Any advice on teething?
From six months to age 3, your child may have tender gums when teeth erupt. Many children like a clean teething ring, cool spoon or cold wet washcloth. Some parents swear by a chilled ring; others simply rub the baby’s gums with a clean finger.
