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To ensure your infant enjoys a healthy smile, you’ll want to stay on top of their dental care needs. If you’re a first-time parent, it’s not always easy to know where, how, or when to begin. Here are some frequently asked questions to inform you about some best practices that will benefit your child’s oral health.

FAQ About Baby Dental Care

When should I schedule their first visit to the dentist?

Visit a pediatric dentist as soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, which is usually by 6 months of age. During this exam, the dentist will take a full survey of your child’s mouth. They’ll look for signs of decay or infection and check that the tooth has erupted in the proper position so crowding and other complications don’t occur with later teeth.

When do I start brushing their teeth?

dental-care-hawaiiStart brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t strip enamel, the protective barrier on the tooth. Choose one with a small head that’s easier to maneuver in your child’s mouth.

Also, use a fluoride-free toothpaste. Babies will often swallow toothpaste, and too much fluoride can lead to fluorosis, which may discolor their teeth.

Why are baby teeth important?

Baby teeth will guide your child’s adult teeth into position, which is why you need to care for them. If they fall out prematurely, it can lead to crowding or misalignment issues. Decay may lead to gum disease, and damaged teeth can affect your child’s speech development and ability to eat.

Is thumb-sucking harmful?

Thumb-sucking is a natural act that’s safe in moderation. Most children stop before or by the time they’re 4. However, if they continue past this age, the sucking motion can pull their front teeth out of alignment. In more serious cases, it may draw the jaw forward. These developmental issues will require extensive orthodontic care to resolve.

 

If you’re ready to schedule your baby’s first exam, contact Pedodontic Associates. For over 25 years, these Hawaii dentists have provided comprehensive pediatric dental care services. They're also accredited by the American Dental Association. Explore all of their services on their website. To make an appointment, call (808) 735-1733 for their Honolulu office, (808) 487-7933 for their Aiea location, or (808) 877-0066 for their Kahului office.

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