Proper dental care should begin before your child’s first tooth appears. It is important to remember that just because their teeth are not seen, doesn’t mean they are not there. At birth your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are well developed in the jaw.
Running a damp disposable gauze over your baby's gums following feedings can prevent buildup of damaging bacteria. Once your child has a few teeth showing, you can brush them with a soft child's toothbrush or rub them with gauze at the end of the day.
Brushing at least twice each day and along with routine flossing will help maintain a healthy mouth. Your child’s first dental check-up should begin just after their third birthday. Such visits can help in the early detection of potential problems and allow your child to get used to visiting the Dentist. When all of your child’s primary teeth have come in (by age 3) your dentist may start applying topical fluoride. Fluoride hardens the tooth enamel, helping to prevent tooth decay.
In some instances even the most diligent brushing and flossing will not prevent a cavity. Please contact Roseville Fine Dentistry as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
Thumb sucking can lead to problems with the normal growth and development of the mouth and tooth alignment. Children should stop sucking their thumb by the time their front permanent teeth start erupting by age six.
Baby teeth are usually not put back in the mouth but we should examine your child to determine that it is in fact a baby tooth and if any roots remain or any other teeth have been injured. These primary teeth play an important part in maintaining space for secondary-adult teeth. If they develop cavities they should be filled as soon as possible. Early loss of primary teeth can lead to speech and orthodontic problems.
