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With so much to learn, new parents often overlook the importance of good oral health care. To ensure that your child is getting expert dental care, it is important to select a qualified and experienced kids' dentist in Lone Tree, CO, or your hometown. Pediatric dentists specialize in caring for the oral health care needs of young children and can instruct and guide new parents through each new stage of development. Read on to get the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about pediatric dentistry. What Is a Pediatric Dentist? A pediatric dentist is a general dentist that specializes in the care of infants, children, and adolescents, much like a pediatrician. Pediatric dentists obtain 2 to 3 years of additional education and training beyond dental school to become a specialist in their field. How Often Should My Child Visit the Dentist? The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that all children see a dentist before their first birthday in order to recognize and prevent any dental problems. Children should continue to have dental checkups every six months for professional cleanings, preventative care, and necessary restorations. How Should I Care for My Child’s Teeth? Establishing good oral hygiene routines is one of the best ways to promote good dental health and prevent cavities in children. The ADA recommends that parents establish the following oral health care routines: - Brush your child’s teeth at least twice a day
- Floss your child’s teeth at least once a day
- Schedule a dental checkup every 6 months
- Use a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush
- Use a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste
- Change your child’s toothbrush every 3 months
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
Are Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers Harmful? Although many parents worry, research has shown that thumb sucking and pacifier use does not cause dental or orthodontic problems unless they continue for a long period of time. Consult your pediatric dentist if your child is still habitually sucking their thumb or fingers after 3 years of age. When Will My Child’s Baby Teeth Erupt and Fall Out? Although every child is different, the average age for a baby’s first tooth to erupt is 6 months. Your child will typically have all 20 primary teeth by 2.5 to 3 years of age. You can expect your child to lose their first baby tooth around 6 years of age and their last tooth around 12 years of age. What Should I Do If My Child Has a Toothache? Dental pain can be caused by several different reasons, including deep cavities, food stuck in the gums, lost or broken fillings, infection, or gum disease. Begin treating the toothache by examining the affected area for any obvious problems. Next, rinse the mouth with warm salt water and carefully clean around the tooth. Lastly, apply a cold compress and administer acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain. Consult your pediatric dentist as soon as possible for a professional evaluation. What Should I Do If My Child Knocks out a Tooth? Broken or knocked-out teeth are a common result of rough play and sports injuries. If your child has knocked out a permanent tooth, it is important to respond quickly in order to save the tooth. Always handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Carefully rinse the tooth in water or milk and try to reinsert it back into the empty socket. If reinsertion is not possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk and take it to your pediatric dentist immediately. An experienced kids' dentist in Lone Tree, CO, or your hometown, may be able to reinsert and save the tooth.
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