Infant & Toddler Dentistry in Largo, MD
Are you the parent of an infant or toddler, wondering how to protect your child’s beautiful smile? That little smile will grow and develop over the coming years, but it will always be unique to your child. Smiles Pediatric Dental Care is here to partner with you to ensure good oral health today and in the years to come. Our children’s dentists offer gentle infant and toddler dentistry, as well as training to help parents take excellent care of those little smiles between dental appointments.
DID YOU KNOW?
Your little one’s mouth will eventually house 20 baby teeth, and in the future, it will be home to 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
Infant Dental Care
Babies are born without teeth and without the bacteria that causes cavities, but their mouths still need preventive care. After feedings, gently wipe your infant’s gums with a soft, moist rag. If you notice redness or white spots on your child’s soft oral tissues, the baby may have thrush. A yeast infection, thrush is often caused by prolonged sucking. Though it’s not usually painful and often goes away in a few days, your pediatrician can prescribe antifungal medication to apply directly to affected areas.
Around four to eight months of age, your baby will sprout their lower center teeth, followed by their upper center teeth. Cutting teeth, or teething, can be a painful experience, but all babies–and parents–go through it. Rub your child’s gums with your clean index finger or offer a teething toy. Chewing on a clean cloth dipped in cold water provides relief, as well. Over-the-counter teething gels and ointments deliver a numbing effect to ease discomfort.
Never, ever put a baby to bed with a bottle, unless it’s filled with only water. If you follow this rule, you can avoid a painful condition known as baby bottle tooth decay. Prolonged exposure to milk, juices, and other beverages causes serious decay.
When that first tooth erupts, it’s time for a dental visit. Bring your infant in for a baby dental checkup. Our children’s dentist can answer all of your questions and address your concerns about oral health and the care of babies. If we identify any abnormalities during the exam, the dentist will explain their findings and treatment recommendations.
Toddler Dental Care
Your toddler will also experience teething. In addition to the tips for teething in babies, try distraction or comforting measures, like cuddling, to take your infant’s mind off the discomfort.
Your child may suck their thumb or use a pacifier. This behavior should be curtailed by age three and altogether stopped by age five. Our children’s dentist in Largo can offer tips and advice to help.
Bring your toddler in twice a year for dental checkups. Please use positive body language and speech to encourage a good attitude about dental visits. Everyone on our team takes special measures to make infants and toddlers feel comfortable. Your toddler will enjoy the decor and playful atmosphere of our office, and we advise parents to bring along comfort objects, like a doll or blanket.
Dental Care for Infants & Toddlers
At Smiles Pediatric Dental Care, our goal is to create a welcoming, loving, and fun environment for children. Each of our team members adores kids and enjoys teaching parents about baby and toddler dentistry. Contact our office today to schedule your child’s first appointment at Smiles Pediatric Dental Care.
