DENTIST FOR TODDLERS WATERFORD
The Key Years for Smile Development
Once your baby surpasses one year old, it’s likely that they’ll still be experiencing signs of teething as a result of even more of their temporary teeth growing in. They’ll also begin eating a greater variety of foods, drinking from sippy cups, and starting to ween off of using their pacifier. As a highly qualified dentist for toddlers in Waterford, Dr. Joe can help educate you about how these habits can impact their oral development, as well as provide helpful tips and advice for avoiding some of the most common dental concerns during these key years.
Why Choose Son Shine Pediatric Dentistry for Toddler Dental Care?
- We Accept Medicaid & Dental Insurance
- A Small, Locally Owned & Operated Dental Practice
- An Experienced, Fun-Loving Pediatric Dentist
Toddler Teeth Development
Your child’s teeth will begin to erupt in the first six to 12 months, with many of the teeth growing in being their front middle ones. From here, their teeth will continue to grow in, usually between one or two a month, and by the time they’re around three years old, they should have most of their visible baby teeth. However, it’s important to keep in mind that every child is different!
What Is Teething?
Teething can be the most dreaded time for parents, as it can result in restless nights and unconsolable fussiness. As your child’s teeth erupt through their gumline, they’ll experience irritation and discomfort with few ways to express it. This is a completely normal part of your baby’s development which usually starts at around three to five months old. However, there’s good news—it doesn’t last forever, and Dr. Joe can help by providing you with some great tips and tricks to soothe the pain!
How to Clean Your Toddler’s Teeth and Gums
Clean your child’s teeth and gums at least twice a day, even if they only have one or two pearly whites. While doing this, be sure to:
- Clean the gums surrounding the teeth with a clean piece of damp gauze or a clean cloth. Gently wipe the gums to remove debris.
- As your child’s teeth emerge, use a small, child-sized toothbrush with a rice-sized smear of toothpaste if they’re younger than three years old and a pea-sized amount if they’re older than three, to brush their teeth.
- Don’t forget to brush their tongue, too!
- Children should use toothpaste with fluoride in it because it helps strengthen their enamel, which is the outermost protective layer of their teeth.