Sophia's (18 mo) first dental visit!\r
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Info Highlights:\r
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Teeth are spongy-porous teeth when they come in (Dr Bree used microscope glasses to look at Sophia's teeth)\r
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20% of children incur 80% of cavities due to genetics and diet. Speed of infection is much faster due to vulnerability of teeth which is why APA now advises dental care starting age 1.\r
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Although baby teeth fall out, the habits and health of baby teeth set the lifelong destiny of adult teeth.\r
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Overview:\r
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Teeth are spongy and porous, and the tooth nerves are closer to the surface - baby teeth have substantially less protection.\r
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Did you know not all plaque is the same? Some plaque types are more damaging, so if a parent has a propensity for cavities, it's more important to avoid sharing spit via utensils and cups. Lifelong plaque type is established by the time we are 2 years old.\r
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Brushing baby teeth at least once a day substantially lowers cavity risk, especially at night when saliva production lessens to protect teeth. Brushing twice a day is recommended.\r
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If baby still wakes during the night for breastfeeding, get baby used to falling asleep after a quick swab over teeth from a toothbrush by the bedside (can't say I've tried this one)\r
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Adult teeth form in the gums behind baby teeth, which is why infections or cavities in baby teeth affect the formation and health of adult teeth.\r
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Ideally offer meals and milk/juice at scheduled times; Grazing and frequent sipping increase cavity factors. \r
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No more than 1/4 cup of juice a day. The risk of cavities from juice is the same *even if you dilute the juice with water! \r
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Flossing begins around age 4 (when teeth are closer together). Just water to brush teeth until age 2 then only a tiny smear of toothpaste.\r
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1 in 3 babies have a tether or low-lying skin underneath their upper lip and gum line between their two font teeth - this area is sensitive so take care to brush around it. If it ever rips it will bleed profusely so don't panic, apply pressure and wait for it to heal. \r
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I learned the optimal way to brush Sophia's teeth -it doesn't take any more time than I spend now but the technique will require Dad's help.\r
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""Painting"" fluoride on baby's teeth every 6 months lower risk of cavities by HALF. For the fluoride-phobic: The younger the child, the less fluoride content is used.\r
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Non-pediatric dentists only receive 2 weeks of pediatric teeth and temperament training.\r
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Lastly - it's the most beautiful doctors' office I've ever been in. The waiting room offers a spacious play area with a mini slide and the rooms are jungle-themed. \r
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*Ask about their special first-time client rate for 12-18 mo old!
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