Common Questions – Oral Healthcare Knowledge
Because we are committed to improving the oral healthcare knowledge of our patients, we are providing the following selection of common pediatric dentistry questions which we hope you will find interesting and informative. Don’t forget to visit our Facebook!
- Why See a Pediatric Dentist?
- When Should Children Have Their First Dental Visit?
- How Often Should Children Have Dental Checkups?
- Why Are Childrens Primary Teeth Important?
- When Will My Baby Start Getting Teeth?
- Does Your Child Grind His or Her Teeth at Night?
- What is Pulp Therapy?
- What’s the Best Toothpaste for My Child?
Key Questions in Pediatric Dentistry
First Dental Visit – One of the most common questions parents ask is when they should bring their child for their first dental appointment. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling the first visit within 6 months after the first tooth appears, or by the child’s first birthday at the latest.
This early visit allows the dentist to check for proper oral development and educate parents on proper oral hygiene techniques.
Brushing and Flossing – Parents often inquire about proper brushing techniques and when to start flossing. Dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) for children under 3 years old. For children 3-6 years old, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Flossing should begin when two teeth touch each other, typically around age 2-3
Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use – Many parents worry about the effects of thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use. While these habits are normal for infants, they can lead to dental problems if they persist beyond age 3-4. Dentists can provide strategies to help break these habits and may recommend appliances if necessary
