When should my child have their first dental visit?

In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears or no later than his/her first birthday. (aapd.org)

What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?

Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs. (aapd.org)

Do you have any tips for getting a toddler to brush their teeth?

  • Singing a song while brushing their teeth
  • Letting them play with the toothbrush in order to get used to it in their mouth
  • If you are brushing your child’s teeth have them lie on a couch or the floor with their head in your lap
  • Incorporate it into your morning and night time routines
  • Brush your teeth together
  • Use a favorite stuffed animal to “model” brushing, or even have the stuffed animal be the one to hold the toothbrush
  • Have them roar like a lion, dinosaur, or bear to get them to open wide (parents.berkeley.edu)

Does it hurt to lose a tooth?

It doesn’t have to hurt. Usually it hurts if you try to get your tooth to fall out before it is ready. Sometimes the dentist has to pull your baby tooth out so the adult tooth can grow in. Kids are sometimes scared that this will hurt, but dentists do a great job to make sure that it doesn’t hurt. The strange feeling you feel when your tooth falls out can sometimes be scary, but it doesn’t have to hurt. Just be patient, and the tooth will fall out. (toothfairyland.com)

How many times a day should you brush your teeth?

At least twice a day. (ada.org)

How many times a day should you floss your teeth?

At least once a day. (ada.org)

Are baby teeth really that important to my child?

Primary, or “baby,” teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. (aapd.org)

How often does my child need to see a pediatric dentist?

A check-up every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health. (aapd.org)

What should I use to clean my baby’s teeth?

A toothbrush will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay. Any soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime. (aapd.org)

What should I do if my child has a toothache?

First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible. (aapd.org)

Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much should we use?

The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a “smear” of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing. (aapd.org)

Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child’s teeth?

Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist. (aapd.org)

Also, do the following:

  • Keep your child’s hands busy with puzzles, coloring pages, or playing games.
  • Limit the sucking to one area or timeframe, such as just before naptime or in the child’s bedroom.