At what age is the first tooth eruption expected?
Generally, a baby develops their first tooth by 4 to 7 months of age. The first grown teeth are the two bottom teeth called the lower central incisors. If a parent is worried that their baby’s first tooth hasn't yet appeared, they must contact their dentist or a specialist like SRM Dental Clinic in Madurai. However, it is perfectly normal for teeth to come out slightly later. The parents must wait till the baby turns 18 months maximum. Even then, the teeth do not erupt, we will diagnose for delayed tooth eruption. The occurrence of late tooth eruption in babies is possible due to factors like genetics, prematurity, and nutritional deficiencies.
When should kids start seeing the dentist?
The ideal first dental appointment for a kid should be at the age of 2 or 3, but this clearly depends on when the teeth start to erupt. Pediatric dentists commonly recommend bringing your child for a dental visit as soon as possible, on the date of the appearance of the child’s first tooth and/or on the child's first birthday.
What to expect at the child’s first dental appointment?
Our dentists and entire team will ensure that your child has fun at their dental visit and they are as comfortable as possible. Here are a few things that happen at the child’s first dental appointment:
- Examine and clean the baby's mouth.
- Show how a parent can contribute to properly cleaning the baby’s teeth.
- Understand the importance of diet and fluoride needs.
- We will recommend a few perfect oral care products.
- The dentist will share if there is any concern related to the baby’s oral development.
- Answer all your doubts and questions regarding the baby’s oral health.
What is the best age for children to start brushing their teeth?
Parents must start brushing their baby’s teeth as soon as the first tooth has erupted. It is essential to put your child into a good oral care habit as a part of their daily routine for healthy teeth and gums. You should not begin brushing with a toothbrush or toothpaste unless the teeth have erupted. Simple, cleaning the baby’s gums with a gentle wipe or a damp washcloth or gauze pad after feeding and before bedtime is enough. It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste for an ideal clean.
Who is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist is dedicated and specialized in the oral health care of children. The age group they cover is from infancy through the teen years. A pediatric dentist, also known as a pedodontist, who has undergone an extra 2-3 years of training after dental school, is also equipped with in-depth knowledge about child psychology, behavior management, and understanding regarding the growth and development of children’s teeth.
What is a Pediatric Dental Emergency?
A pediatric dental emergency is an unexpected occurrence as a result of a fall or sudden injury, or the presence of tooth decay or infection. Some common dental emergencies noticed in kids and how to deal with them:
- Infected baby tooth: Improper or sporadic teeth cleaning can lead to causing one or more infected or abscessed teeth. Since the infection can spread to neighboring healthy teeth, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
- Tooth fracture: Kids usually experience tooth fractures while playing, falling, in sports-related injuries, and fights. Parents may not notice the fracture immediately, but it might result in infection after some time. It is recommended to visit a dentist.
- Injured or lost permanent teeth: Children in their teenage years might experience losing their permanent teeth, which could lead to the need for tooth replacement through a professional dentist.
On the way to your dentist, make sure to:
- Hold the tooth’s empty socket with gauze
- Store the tooth in a container and add milk to prevent it from drying out.
- Avoid handling the tooth; this will lower the risk of infection.
Pediatric emergencies can take place anytime; it is vital to be prepared to act in case of injury. Keep your information on hand and call us when an emergency strikes. SRM Dental Clinic specializes in kids dentistry in Madurai, facilitates you with fast response to emergencies, and provides ideal care to save your child’s tooth. Contact us anytime in case of an emergency!