Teething
Teething is the process by which an infant’s first teeth often called “baby teeth” or “milk teeth” sequentially appear by emerging through the gums, typically arriving in pairs. Teething usually begins between six and eight months. Teething can begin as early as 3 months and continue until a child’s third birthday.
Why Primary Teeth Are Important
Many people think baby teeth don’t matter because they’ll eventually fall out. The truth is baby teeth do matter. Primary teeth play a very important role in developing a child’s early physical, social and emotional development.
Healthy Baby Teeth:
- Helps with good nutrition through proper chewing
- Build self-esteem by providing a beautiful smile
- Guide the eruption of permanent teeth
- Enable a child to pay attention and learn in school without the distraction of dental pain
- Assist in speech development
Infant Tooth Eruption
Tooth eruption is a process in tooth development in which the teeth enter the mouth and become visible. It is currently believed that the periodontal ligament plays an important role in tooth eruption. A child’s teeth actually start forming before birth. As early as 4 months of age, the primary or “baby” teeth push through the gums—the lower central incisors are first, then the upper central incisors. The remainder of the 20 primary teeth typically erupt by age 3, but the place and order varies.
A Child’s First Dental Visit
After the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday. A dental visit at an early age is a “well-baby checkup” for the teeth. The most important part of the visit is getting to know and becoming comfortable with a doctor and his staff. A pleasant, comfortable first visit builds trust and helps put the child at ease during future dental visits. If possible, allow the child to sit in a parent’s lap in the exam room. Children should be encouraged to discuss any fears or anxiety they feel.
IV sedation
Younger children, children with high dental anxiety and children with extensive treatment needs, may have a hard time coping and cooperating with the treatment. In such cases, we have experienced and board certified pediatric anesthesiologist on board to provide safe and effective sedation for these children.
Schedule a First Visit Right Away
San Antonio Dental have extensive training and wide experience in building a healthy and beautiful smiles for your kids. Being a mother of two handsome kids, we understand and care about why it’s important to start taking professional care of Primary Teeth in early ages.
To make it more easy for working parents and kids going to school, our office offers early mornings and weekend appointments for your convenience where we make sure your child’s dental health is headed into the right direction.
We also answer as many questions you have about your child’s well being and can provide consultation for: Teeth grinding, Thumb-sucking problems, Proper care of infant teeth, Proper Brushing, Good dental habits.
