Pediatric Dentistry FAQ

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) suggests that children should have their first dental visit around six months after their first tooth emerges or no later than their first birthday. These initial appointments are designed to help your child become comfortable in a dental setting and ensure proper growth and development.

Babies actually begin developing teeth during the second trimester of pregnancy, around 16 to 20 weeks. Typically, teeth start emerging between 6 and 10 months of age. You should start flossing your child’s teeth as soon as two adjacent teeth appear.

Primary teeth play a vital role in maintaining good oral health and proper development. Your child’s primary teeth contribute to:

• Correct speech production and development
• Proper chewing, nutrition and digestion
• Maintaining space for adult teeth, promoting straighter smiles
• Excellent overall oral health

Taking good care of your child’s primary teeth is crucial. Feel free to reach out to our team if you have any questions.

Following your child’s initial dental visit, our team will assist you in scheduling regular appointments with our pediatric dentist. Your child should have dental checkups every six months, or twice a year. If your child is more susceptible to dental issues, we may recommend more frequent visits as necessary.

Your child’s teeth are essential for their overall wellbeing and development. Here are some tips for caring for your child’s teeth:

• Encourage brushing at least twice a day.
• Assist your child with daily flossing.
• Schedule regular dental visits.
• Consult with our pediatric dentist about preventive care options like sealants and fluoride.
• Promote a balanced and nutritious diet.
• Ensure your child wears a mouthguard when participating in sports.

Thumb and finger sucking is common in children under four years old. Most children stop on their own between ages two and four, but if the habit persists, it can affect dental and oral development. Our pediatric dentist and team can offer strategies to help your child quit this habit, including oral appliances and at-home techniques like using a glove or sock on fingers or providing distractions. Please contact us for more information.

To maintain your infant’s oral health, clean their teeth daily. Before teeth erupt, gently wipe their gums with a soft, damp cloth to remove milk or formula residue. Once teeth emerge, use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a small amount of child-safe toothpaste for children under two years old. After age two, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Assist your child with brushing and flossing until around age seven.

Your oral health during pregnancy impacts your baby’s future dental health. Continue your regular oral care routine, including dental cleanings and checkups. Schedule a dental health checkup when you first learn of your pregnancy and another six months later. Address any dental concerns promptly and maintain good oral hygiene throughout your pregnancy.

Xylitol is a natural substance known for reducing and preventing cavities. It is particularly effective for children, teenagers and individuals with special needs. Xylitol is found in various fruits and vegetables like berries, mushrooms, corn and lettuce. It is also available in concentrate, gum and sugar substitute forms. Xylitol neutralizes mouth acids, lowering the risk of cavities and providing added tooth protection. Children, teens and expecting mothers can use xylitol to improve oral health.

Yes! Dental X-rays are very safe for children. Our pediatric dentist and team prioritize your child’s safety and comfort during their visit. Advancements in technology and dental practices, including digital imaging and faster X-rays, continue to make dental X-rays even safer.

Absolutely. If your child has a damaged tooth or a tooth infection, our pediatric dentist can provide treatments to restore their oral health and smile. We will assess your child’s condition and create a personalized treatment plan to address their specific needs.