Early Treatment
Teething
A child’s teeth actually start forming before birth. Normally the first tooth erupts between ages 6 to 12 months, the primary or “baby” teeth push through the gums. The lower central incisors are first, then the upper central incisors.
Gums can be sore and tender occasionally until around the age of 3, when the final baby tooth erupts. Rubbing sore gums gently with a clean finger, cold wet cloth or teething rings can help soothe the gums. Infants Tylenol or Motrin can reduce the irritability and soreness if needed. Teething biscuits can aid with the soreness, just remember these do contain sugar which is not good for baby teeth.
Tooth decay in infants can be minimized or totally prevented by not allowing sleeping infants to breast or bottle-feed. Infants that need a bottle to comfortably fall asleep should be given a water-filled bottle or a pacifier. It is important to monitor the teeth for any signs of baby bottle decay. A bottle containing anything other than water and left in an infant’s mouth while sleeping can cause decay. This happens because sugar in the liquid mixes with bacteria in dental plaque, forming acids that attack the tooth enamel. Each time a child drinks liquids containing sugar, acids stay on the teeth for about 20 minutes. Examine the teeth, especially on the inside or tongue side for any signs of weakened enamel, white spots or lines that are whiter than the tooth surface. Brushing the teeth, wiping with a damp cloth or Spiffie wipe will promote healthy, cavity free teeth.
Our office is dedicated to fighting baby bottle tooth decay. Let us know if you notice any signs of decay or anything unusual in your child’s mouth.
Infant’s New Teeth
The primary teeth play a crucial role in dental development. Without them, a child cannot chew food properly and has difficulty speaking clearly. The self image that healthy teeth give a child is immeasurable. Primary teeth are vital for guiding the permanent (secondary) teeth in place which starts happening around age 6.
Since the primary teeth guide the permanent teeth into place, children missing primary teeth or who have prematurely lost these teeth may require a space maintainer. A space maintainer is an appliance used to hold the natural space open. Without a maintainer, the teeth can shift and/or drift into the empty space causing the permanent teeth to come in crooked or difficulty even erupting. The way your child cares for his/her primary teeth plays a critical role in how he/she treats the permanent teeth. Children and adults are equally susceptible to plaque and gum problems—hence, the need for regular care and dental checkups.
A Child’s First Dental Visit
A child’s first dental visit should be scheduled around his/her first birthday. The most important part of the visit is getting to know and becoming comfortable with a doctor and his staff. A pleasant, comfortable first visit builds trust and helps put the child at ease during future dental visits. Sometimes if the kids are nervous we may not get everything done, but we do want to at least check them for any possible cavities. We show them everything we are going to use and use kid friendly terms! We also allow the child to sit in a parent’s lap in the open bay if they aren’t feeling at ease. Children should be encouraged to discuss any fears or anxiety they feel.
Why Primary Teeth Are Important
Primary teeth are important for several reasons. Foremost, good teeth allow a child to eat and maintain good nutrition. Healthy teeth allow for clear pronunciation and speech habits. The self-image that healthy teeth give a child is immeasurable. Primary teeth also guide eruption of the permanent teeth.
Good Diet and Healthy Teeth
The teeth, bones and soft tissue of the mouth require a healthy, well-balanced diet. A variety of foods from the five food groups helps minimize (and avoid) cavities and other dental problems. Most snacks that children eat cause cavities, fruit snacks and gummy snacks are very sticky and can stay in the grooves of the teeth long after the snack is gone. We highly recommend that children limit these kinds of snacks or brush right after eating. Children should only receive healthy foods like vegetables, low-fat yogurt and cheeses, which promote strong teeth.
Infant Tooth Eruption
A child’s teeth actually start forming before birth. As early as 4 months of age, the primary or “baby” teeth push through the gums—the lower central incisors are first, then the upper central incisors. The remainder of the 20 primary teeth typically erupt by age 3, but the place and order varies.
Permanent teeth begin eruption around age 6, starting with the first molars and lower central incisors. This process continues until around age 21. Adults have 28 secondary (permanent) teeth—32 including the third molars (wisdom teeth).
Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Tooth decay in infants can be minimized or totally prevented by not allowing sleeping infants to breast or bottle-feed. Infants that need a bottle to comfortably fall asleep should be given a water-filled bottle or a pacifier. Our office is dedicated to fighting baby bottle tooth decay. Let us know if you notice any signs of decay or anything unusual in your child’s mouth.