FAQs About Pediatric Dentistry

By JoAnne Bernard, DDS

Bernard Dental

. http://www.bernarddental.com/

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FAQs About Pediatric Dentistry

Even though baby teeth are not meant to last forever, they serve some very important functions for the time they are around. Healthy baby teeth allow your child to bite and chew food, articulate sounds correctly during speech, and, of course, to smile. They also help guide the permanent teeth, which will one day replace them, into proper alignment. So it's important to take good care of them while they're here. Let's answer some frequently asked questions about pediatric dentistry.

Can I get my teeth cleaned while I'm pregnant?
Yes and you should. Both the American Dental Association and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that women keep up with their regular schedule of dental cleanings and exams during pregnancy. Not doing so can allow disease-causing oral bacterial to flourish, which can be a health risk for both the expectant mother and her fetus.

Do infants need their teeth brushed?
Yes, it's important to start a daily oral hygiene routine as soon as the first baby tooth appears usually sometime between 6-9 months of age. Use a very soft-bristled child-sized toothbrush and just a smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice). When your child turns three, increase the amount of fluoride toothpaste to the size of a pea.

When should I take my child in for their first dental appointment?
The answer to this one may surprise you All children should see a dentist by the age of one. Early dental visits get children accustomed to having their mouths examined and their teeth cleaned. Establishing this healthy habit early will go a long way toward promoting a lifetime of good oral health.

Should I worry that my child sucks his thumb?
That depends on how old they are. Thumb sucking is a normal, comforting habit for babies and toddlers. Most outgrow it by the time they are four. But kids who don't are at increased risk for orthodontic issues later on. If your child seems unable to break the habit, let us know; we can give you more detailed recommendations at your next appointment.

What can I do to prevent my children from getting cavities?
Make sure your children have an effective daily oral hygiene routine that includes brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing at least once per day. If they are too young to do a good job by themselves, help them complete these important tasks. Keep their sugar consumption as low as possible; pay particular attention to beverages soda, sports drinks and even 100% natural fruit juices can all promote tooth decay.