When it comes to your child’s dental needs, you may have a lot of questions. Take a look at the frequently asked questions below. If you have further questions or concerns, contact the pediatric dental care team at Pinnacle Pediatric Dentistry, serving the Houston, TX area.
FAQs
Why should I use a pediatric dentistry team for my children instead of our regular family dentist?
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral health of young people and includes additional specialty training in the unique needs of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special health needs.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
Your child should see a pediatric dentist care team when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday to prevent dental problems. This helps to ensure your child’s dental needs are being met.
How often does my child need to see a pediatric dental specialist?
In order to prevent cavities and other dental problems, you should take your child for a check-up every six months. Based on your child’s personal oral health, your pediatric dental care team will tell you when and how often your child should visit.
When will my child get their teeth?
Most children start to get their baby teeth around 6 months and some may get them earlier (between 3 and 4 months). Other children may not get their first tooth until closer to their first birthday.
Do newly-erupted teeth come in all at once for babies?
Baby teeth do not erupt all at once. They come in gradually over the course of their first few years of life and they will have a total of 20 baby teeth before the age of 3.
How can I help my child with teething?
This is an uncomfortable process for many infants and some children have no issues as their teeth erupt. If your child is uncomfortable during the teething process, you can gently rub the gum tissue with a clean finger, use a damp, cool washcloth, and use teething toys.
Is using a pacifier and thumbsucking harmful for a child’s teeth?
These habits become a problem if they continue for a long period of time. In most cases, children stop these habits on their own. If they continue after age 3, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
Baby teeth fall out, so are they really that important to my child?
Baby teeth are important for many reasons as they help children speak clearly, chew naturally, and help form a path for permanent teeth to follow when they are ready to push through.
How can I help my child care for their teeth?
Before your child gets their first tooth, you can clean their gums with a damp washcloth. Once newly-erupted teeth appear, you can start to brush them. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. Contact our pediatric dental care team with any questions.
When should my child start using toothpaste?
Do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 3. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and keep an eye on your children to make sure they do not swallow excess toothpaste.
