New teeth can be fun at the right pediatric dentist. Although teething can lead to discomfort, emerging teeth are also some of the first steps kids take as they grow up.
Learning to care for teeth is also an important part of lifelong health and happiness. That's why most dentists recommend coming in as soon as the first tooth emerges.
To schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist in Pleasanton, please call (925) 462-1464 today. We are currently accepting new patients and will prioritize this important first appointment, but it's always a good idea to make the booking ahead of time.
When Should Teeth Start Emerging?
Your child's first tooth should emerge at any age from six months to a year old. This is the point at which you will want to start brushing with a soft-bristled brush intended for young children and infants.
Many baby foods have a fair amount of natural sugar in them. This sugar can lead to decay and infections. Even though the teeth will eventually fall out, it's still very important to keep them healthy until adult teeth are ready to come in.
Brushing should generally happen at least four times a day. Brush first after breakfast and then again after every meal. A final brush before bedtime closes out the day.
Why Do You Have To Brush Baby Teeth?
Brushing baby teeth is important for a number of reasons. The first one is to keep your child's teeth and gums healthy. Childhood gum inflammations due to lapsed oral hygiene might exacerbate teething discomfort and cause further complications, so prevention is usually a good idea for everyone involved.
The second reason for brushing and flossing baby teeth is to instill good habits in your children. Administering (and later supervising) good hygiene should set the groundwork for healthy permanent teeth in late childhood, adolescence, and throughout your child's adult life.
In addition to brushing, don't forget to give your child a quick visual oral check-up every couple of weeks. Dark lines and staining are signs of tooth decay — they're indications you should make an appointment at the dentist as soon as possible.
How Often Should Children Have Professional Cleanings?
After the first appointment between the ages of six and twelve months old, children usually come to the dentist twice a year for several years. These early childhood appointments are professional cleanings, but they are also a time for your child to get comfortable coming to the dentist's office — something we all know can be stressful at first. Additionally, your dentist will keep an eye on your child's general oral health.
If you're ready to make your appointment, we'd be thrilled to be your child's first dentist. Please give Mona Gokani, DDS, a call at (925) 462-1464 today.