Pediatric Dentistry: Infant Teeth Care FAQs

If you have an infant, then you may have some questions about pediatric dentistry. For example, you might be wondering how to help your child avoid cavities in the baby teeth. Or you might be wondering if your child is receiving enough fluoride. Read on to learn more.

When does a child need to have a pediatric dentistry visit?

It is a good idea for parents to take children to the dentist as soon as the first tooth has appeared. Children should have had their first dental visit by the time they turn one. This can help children develop healthy habits from a young age. It can also help a pediatric dentist address any potential issues, such as thumb-sucking.

How can a young child avoid decay?

Many children develop tooth decay at a young age. Nursing and bottle-feeding can both contribute to this. Both milk and juices have sugar on them. If the sugar is left on a child’s teeth for too long, decay can result.

To avoid tooth decay, mothers should not nurse children to sleep. Before bed, children should not have anything to drink besides water. If a child is not drinking from a bottle, it should not be resting in the child’s mouth. As with adults, regular brushing and flossing can prevent tooth decay.

Are dental X-rays harmless?

There is little risk associated with dental X-rays. However, dentists take extra precautions when it comes to children. Children will wear heavy lead aprons during an X-ray. The X-ray will be taken as quickly as possible to minimize the amount of radiation. This will help children to remain as healthy as possible during the X-rays.

What should young children eat?

Parents should provide children with healthy, balanced meals. Avoiding sugar will help the baby teeth remain in place. Parents should not serve starches or sugars. Instead, parents should look for baby foods that contain vegetables, fruits, whole grains and meat or eggs. A pediatric dentist can find foods that will keep baby teeth healthy.

How much fluoride does an infant need?

Fluoride is especially important for young children, whose teeth are still developing. Getting enough fluoride will help children’s teeth become strong. Usually, children will get enough fluoride through drinking water. However, some bottled waters do not have fluoride in them.

Before getting a fluoride supplement for a child, it is a good idea to check with a pediatric dentist. Too much fluoride can cause the teeth to become stained or darkened. A pediatric dentistry practice can recommend the right amount of fluoride for a child.

Choose a pediatric dentistry practice today

Even if your infant does not yet have any teeth, it is a good idea to be planning ahead. The first tooth usually comes in around six months old. You should plan on finding a pediatric dentistry practice shortly after this. Helping your child take care of their teeth can help your child develop healthy habits for a lifetime.

Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

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