Categories: Pediatric Dentistry

Preventive Pediatric Dentistry: Dental Exams and Teeth Cleanings for Infant Teeth

Maintaining and monitoring a child's oral health from the very start can reduce the risk of future problems, such as multiple cavities. A pediatric dentistry clinic can help parents learn why early visits for infants are so important. From preventing gingivitis to monitoring the way a baby's teeth grow and erupt, regular dental visits for infants from six months up to 1 year old have a variety of benefits. 

Why is infant dental care important?

Many parents may not assume that early dental care is necessary or beneficial for infants because baby teeth eventually fall out. In truth, monitoring the growth of the first teeth can prevent problems later on, such as: 

  • Inconsistent tooth cleaning
  • Thumb sucking and pacifier use
  • A lack of fluoride

One serious problem that can occur unless monitored is baby bottle decay. This occurs when babies are allowed to go to sleep with a bottle; the milk or formula remains in the mouth, and the bacteria that then forms promotes early tooth decay. A clinic experienced in pediatric dentistry can monitor and prevent decay that may affect future adult teeth or cause oral infection. Babies up to a year old can also benefit from a variety of other services when visiting a pediatric dental clinic. 

Regular cleanings

When babies' first teeth come in, they must be properly and regularly cleaned to prevent decay that might cause pain and infection or the early loss of the baby teeth. Without the primary teeth, the adult teeth can come in crooked. While parents should also clean new teeth at home with gauze and water, dental clinic cleanings can ensure new teeth remain healthy. 

Regular cleaning visits usually begin with a comprehensive exam, where the parents can voice any concerns about the child's oral health, such as if certain teeth are coming in late. Being able to ask these questions can set parents' minds at ease, especially if they have noticed anything unusual. 

Early X-rays

Sometimes, when babies' teeth do not come in as expected, X-rays can reveal the problem. A lack of teeth could affect how babies react to early solid foods and speech as well. Comprehensive X-rays can give pediatric dentistry professionals clues as to the cause. 

Oral care tips for parents

Parents may also benefit from taking an infant in for a cleaning once baby teeth appear, as learning tips for in-home dental care can ensure that baby's teeth remain healthy in between cleanings. Tips for curbing bottle, thumbsucking, and pacifier habits can help parents support the healthy formation of teeth so they do not change alignment due to these behaviors. 

Conclusion

When a baby's teeth first come in, proper cleaning and monitoring can help to set in place a lifetime of good oral health and positive habits. Regular pediatric dentistry exams, along with learning tips for in-home cleaning and brushing, can protect babies' teeth well into toddlerhood and beyond. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.babytoothdoc.com or call Dennis R. Campbell, DDS at (828) 417-3828 for an appointment in our Asheville office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Asheville, NC.

Recent Posts

Pediatric Dentist Near Me: What To Expect At The First Visit

When it comes to your child's dental health, the first visit to a pediatric dentist is a significant milestone. It sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy oral hygiene habits and helps alleviate any anxiety your child may have about visiting the dentist. If you're searching for a "pediatric dentist near me," it's important…

Common Visits To A Pediatric Dentist

Regular visits to a pediatric dentist who specializes in young patients are an important part of establishing good oral health practices. Many instances of severe dental conditions in children stem from either a lack of regard for proper hygiene or a lack of knowledge on the proper ways to care for a child's teeth. Check…

Tips From A Children’s Dentist To Maintain Oral Health

Trying to teach your kids about oral hygiene can be tricky, but with a little help from your local children's dentist, you can make the process much easier and have them wanting to keep their teeth healthy on their own. It all starts with knowing how to teach them about oral hygiene and how to…

6 FAQs About What To Expect From A Dental Checkup For Kids

Making sure your child undergoes a dental checkup for kids regularly is important for ensuring their continued oral health and avoiding the onset or exacerbation of dental problems. These visits allow the dentist to monitor a child's oral health, teach good oral hygiene practices, and address any problems promptly.Parents may have questions regarding their children's…

Dennis R. Campbell, DDS

Share
Published by
Dennis R. Campbell, DDS

Recent Posts

Pediatric Dentist Near Me: What To Expect at the First Visit

The first visit to a pediatric dentist is an important step in your child’s oral…

3 weeks ago

How Dental Sealants Prevent Cavities in Kids

Tooth brushing often misses the plaque and bacteria that collect there, making it harder to…

2 months ago

The Role of Preventive Dentistry in Pediatric Oral Health

Working with your dentist can also give your child a good start in life.

3 months ago

Baby Root Canals: What Parents Need To Know about Saving Baby Teeth

The reason dentists perform root canals on baby teeth is to preserve the rest of…

4 months ago

Preventing Childhood Cavities: Tips and Tricks From a Dentist for Kids

To maintain a healthy oral care routine, begin early.

5 months ago

How Dental Sealants Can Protect Your Child’s Teeth

Dental sealants may provide your kid with a solid foundation for a lifetime of good…

6 months ago