Pediatric Dentistry in Vista, CA

Care For Your Child’s Teeth

Caring for your child’s teeth is the best way to prevent cavities and protect his oral health. Pediatric oral care involves preventative care at Sycamore Dental and regular care at home. By visiting your child’s dentist every three to  six months and creating a consistent oral care routine at home, you can keep your child’s mouth healthy and strong.
During a children’s appointment, your child’s dentist examines the teeth for signs of early decay, monitors the alignment of teeth for potential orthodontic needs, tracks development of the jaw, and carefully cleans the teeth and gums. Additional preventative measures like sealants on the molars and fluoride treatment on the teeth may also be recommended.

The type of care your child receives at the dentist is essential to successful preventative care, and so is a consistent oral care routine at home. We recommend using the following techniques to protect your child’s developing mouth from harm:

• Give your child nourishing foods and discourage sugary snacks
• Brush with your child at least twice a day using a soft bristled brush and pea-sized amount of toothpaste
• Use non-fluoridated toothpaste for children under the age of two, and fluoridated toothpaste for children over two
• Help our child floss on a daily basis to prevent cavities between the teeth

The pediatric dentistry team at Sycamore Dental is here to help you with your child’s dental care in any way possible. Call our office or schedule a visit to address your concerns.

When Should Children Have Their First Dental Visit?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) encourages parents to bring their children to the dentist for a “well baby” appointment by the child’s first birthday.

This gives your child’s dentist the opportunity to examine and track his oral development and help him develop strong oral care habits. The Sycamore Dental team is committed to making your child’s first dental visit a welcoming, comfortable, positive experience.

Why Are Primary Teeth Important?

Primary teeth, most commonly known as baby teeth, develop long before they are visible. Your child’s baby teeth actually developed beneath the gums during the second trimester of pregnancy.

Beginning around six months and continuing through the age of three, your child’s primary teeth erupt one-by-one. The front teeth are often first to grow in. By preschool, your child will have a complete set of 20 baby teeth.

These primary teeth are important for many reasons that affect your child long after childhood:

• When primary teeth are in their proper positions, they support speech production and
  development
• Strong primary teeth make chewing and healthy eating easy
• A clean, straight smile improves your child’s self-confidence and prevents teasing due to
  bad breath and crooked teeth
• Healthy primary teeth are “space holders” for adult teeth to help create a straighter smile in the future

How Often Should Children Have Dental Checkups?

All children need to see the dentist once every three to  six months, beginning no later than age one. By visiting the dentist children receive the attention and care they need. During each appointment, dentists evaluate changes in the condition of the teeth and gums , advise parents on smart oral care techniques, and give the mouth a comprehensive cleaning.

How to Prevent Cavities

Cavities, also known as dental caries and tooth decay, are one of the biggest threats to your child’s oral health. Tooth decay is painful, embarrassing, and dangerous if left untreated. This is why it’s so important to help your child prevent cavities and maintain a healthy smile.

Cavities develop when sugar, acid, and bacteria coat the teeth. This forms a sticky substance called plaque that eats away at the outer surface of the teeth and causes decay. Use these strategies to keep your child’s teeth protected from plaque and decay:

1. Reduce sugar snacks and replace them with nutritious foods
2. Give your child water between meals, not milk or juice
3. Don’t send your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup
4. Supervise your child’s brushing and flossing twice a day
5. Bring your child to the pediatric dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning 

The team at Sycamore Dental is here to answer your questions and provide the comprehensive care your child needs to prevent cavities and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of tooth decay in children?

Some common signs of tooth decay in children include:

• Toothaches
• Bad breath
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swollen cheeks or gums
• Difficulty chewing or eating
• White spots or dark stains on teeth

How can I help my child overcome dental anxiety?

Here are some strategies to help your child feel more comfortable during dental visits:

• Talk about it positively: Discuss dental visits in a positive and reassuring manner.
• Practice at home: Role-play dental exams with a toy stethoscope and mirror.
• Bring a favorite toy or blanket: Familiar objects can provide comfort.
• Schedule a tour of the dental office: Let your child explore the environment beforehand.
• Communicate with our dentist: Inform our dentist about your child's anxiety, and they can tailor the visit accordingly.

What is the role of fluoride in dental health?

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It can be found in toothpaste, mouthwash, and some municipal water supplies. Regular exposure to fluoride can significantly reduce the risk of cavities.