Dentistry for Toddlers
Why Choose OWL Pediatric Dentistry for Toddler Dental Care?
We Accept & Maximize Dental Insurance
Fun, Kid-Friendly Dental Offices & Team
Passionate Board-Certified Doctors
With Us, Beating Teething Isn’t So Hard
At our clinic, managing teething is easier with the support and tools we provide to help soothe your baby’s discomfort. From teething rings to gentle oral massages, we offer effective solutions to relieve pain and encourage healthy tooth development. You can rely on us for expert advice and compassionate care as we guide you through this challenging stage.
Toddler Teeth Development
Toddler teeth development is a vital milestone in your child’s early years, typically beginning around 6 months when the first teeth start to emerge. By the age of 3, most toddlers will have a full set of 20 primary (baby) teeth. During this stage, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing their teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. As their teeth come in, they may experience discomfort from teething, which can be eased with teething rings or gentle gum massages. Regular dental check-ups, starting at age 1, are important for tracking their development, addressing any potential concerns, and laying the foundation for healthy oral habits as they grow.
Teething
Teething is the process in which a baby’s primary (baby) teeth start to emerge through the gums, usually around 6 months of age. Here are some key points to understand about teething:
- Timing: Teething generally begins around 6 months, but the exact timing can vary, with some babies starting earlier or later.
- Symptoms: Typical symptoms include drooling, swollen gums, irritability, a strong urge to chew on objects, and disrupted sleep.
How to Clean Your Toddler’s Teeth and Gums
Non-nutritive oral habits, such as thumb sucking, pacifier use, or prolonged bottle feeding, are common in infants and young children. While these behaviors can provide comfort and aid in self-soothing, if they persist too long, they may lead to dental issues, such as misalignment of the teeth or changes in the roof of the mouth. For example, thumb sucking can result in an open bite or interfere with proper tooth eruption. Dentists closely monitor these habits during routine check-ups and may suggest strategies to help children break the habit, such as using positive reinforcement or offering alternatives like a soft comfort object. Early intervention can help prevent long-term dental problems and support healthier oral development.
