Pediatric Dentistry: Infant Teeth Health FAQs

As your child begins to grow their first teeth, you may have some questions about pediatric dentistry. For example, you might be wondering why a child’s baby teeth are so important. You may also be wondering how you can care for your infant’s teeth. Read on to learn more.

Are an infant’s teeth that important?

There are many reasons why baby teeth are important. As the teeth grow in, they can help children learn to speak, as well as eat solid foods. The baby teeth also pave the way for adult teeth in later years. Parents should remember that oral health is about  teeth and surrounding soft tissue structures.

If a baby’s tooth gets a cavity, and it progresses into the inner layer called the dentin, the infant can become extremely uncomfortable. Untreated cavities  which progress into the pulp also known as the blood supply of the tooth can result in an abscess which is a localized infection.  In rare cases an infection can spread into the bloodstream known as septicemia, a dangerous condition which needs immediate attention. Teeth abscess has been known to  affect the developing adult teeth.

When does teething start?

Teething happens when the teeth erupt through the gums. Usually, a child’s teeth will start to grow around four to six months. However, some children’s teeth may not come in until the children are a year old. Genetics will play a role.

When should a parent begin using toothpaste?

In pediatric dentistry, it is better to start using toothpaste as soon as possible. Parents can use an infant toothbrush to clean the gums as soon as the child is born. Once the child’s teeth come through, parents can start using a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste. This can help strengthen the teeth. Infant toothbrushes are softer and smaller for a baby’s sensitive mouth.

What type of fillings are used for infant teeth?

Even with good care, a child can still develop cavities. To treat the cavities, a dentist can use white fillings. These fillings match the natural color of the teeth. Usually, the fillings are made out of composite resin. 

A composite resin filling can also help prevent tooth sensitivity. It protects the tooth because not as much tooth needs to be removed to place the filling. This type of filling will bond to the tooth better than an amalgam one would.

Can an infant have a dental emergency?

A child of any age can have a dental emergency. This can include a fractured, broken or chipped tooth. An extremely painful toothache is another type of dental emergency. Visiting a pediatric dentistry practice immediately is vital in a dental emergency. However, if a child has a very severe issue, the emergency room may be the better option.

Visit a pediatric dentistry practice today

A child should go to a pediatric dentistry practice for their first dental appointment between the ages of six month to one year.  Early dental introduction with familiar routines like cleaning and exam enables children to build confidence.  You can also ask the dentist all of your questions about the health of your infant’s teeth. Making an appointment today can help you get on track with your child’s oral health.

Request an appointment here: http://www.pediatricdentistsuffolk.com or call Fun Park Pediatric Dentistry at (757) 767-2767 for an appointment in our Suffolk office.