Basic Oral Health for Children

Early Childhood

As soon as your child’s teeth emerge, is the time to start caring for them! With an early start, your baby will be able to get used to the daily routine of brushing. Early on, caring for your baby’s teeth is as simple as using a soft washcloth over your finger to gently cleanse them. After your baby’s first visit to Dr. Khan, he will tell you when it’s time to switch to a small gentle brush.

Teaching Proper Care

In general, most small children do not have the coordination to properly brush on their own until After the age of 6 or 7. However, you can certainly start teaching good dental hygiene and technique before then. For technique, leading by example is the best way to teach your child how to properly clean your teeth to avoid the buildup of plaque.

There are a few key differences to remember when brushing your child’s teeth:

  • Only a grain of rice-sized amount of toothpaste is needed when brushing your baby’s teeth, once the child turns 3, you can graduate to using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
  • Children should have their teeth brushed twice a day – once in the morning and once at night. A thorough brushing should take about two minutes, spending a good amount of time on the back teeth.

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When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Exam?

Plainville dentist Dr. Khan recommends that an infant should have their teeth examined by age 1 or within 6 months after the first few teeth surface. This will allow Dr. Khan to inspect the teeth for any irregularities and guide you, the parent, on correct pediatric brushing methods and diet tips. Dr. Khan may suggest that around the time your child turns seven, they should have a sealant applied onto their molars to help protect them against cavities.

Common Oral Health Problems in Children

Just like adults, children have their own unique risks when proper oral hygiene and maintenance isn’t followed.

  • Baby bottle decay – baby bottle decay happens when a baby’s teeth have frequent contact with teeth or when unswallowed milk or juice remains in their mouth for a long period of time. To avoid decay, cleanse your baby’s teeth after each feeding, and don’t give them anything sugary before bedtime.
  • Behaviors that cause alignment issues – habits such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and lip sucking can all cause issues with alignment such as an overbite. The only way to avoid these issues is by providing positive reinforcement to help your child break the habit.
  • Early tooth loss – Premature tooth loss usually affects children who have tooth decay or don’t have enough jaw space for their teeth. If this is the case for your child, make sure you get in to see Dr. Khan to start a treatment plan to correct the issue.

If your child is due for a dental checkup or is ready for their first visit, call IKON Dental Group today to set up an appointment with Dr. Khan.

Children’s Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At what age do you stop going to a pediatric dentist?

Children typically transition from a pediatric dentist to a general dentist during adolescence, generally between the ages of 17 and 20.

Can a three-year-old go to the dentist?

It's recommended that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Routine dental visits are crucial for children starting at a young age to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy and introduce them to dental care positively.

Do children have to go to a pediatric dentist?

Children do not necessarily have to go to a pediatric dentist, as general dentists can also handle their dental needs. Pediatric dentists specialize in the dental care of infants, children, and adolescents, and they are specifically trained to address the unique needs and concerns of this age group.

Do pediatric dentists perform surgery?

Pediatric dentists are specially trained to provide comprehensive oral health care for infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special health care needs. While they primarily focus on preventive care and treatment of dental diseases, pediatric dentists are also equipped to perform certain types of oral surgery.

Do toddlers need a dental benefit plan (insurance)?

Dental benefit plans (insurance) for toddlers can be a valuable investment in their long-term oral health. This encourages you to schedule routine checkups.

How often do you take a toddler to the dentist?

Parents are generally recommended to take their toddler to the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings.

Should a five-year-old get cavities filled?

Yes, a five-year-old should get cavities filled. Cavities can occur in children of any age as soon as teeth appear. It is crucial to address these cavities early to prevent them from becoming larger and causing pain, potential infection, or disruption of the development of the adult dentition.

What happens at your child's first dentist appointment?

At your child's first dentist appointment, the dentist will perform a gentle examination to assess the health of your child's teeth and gums. During the visit, the dentist will check for signs of early decay, monitor the child's bite, and look for any potential problems with the gums, jaw, and oral tissues.

What is the difference between a general dentist and a pediatric dentist?

A general dentist is equipped to care for the oral health of patients of all ages, offering a wide array of services from routine cleanings to complex procedures like root canals and crowns. A pediatric dentist specializes in the dental treatment of infants, children, and adolescents.

Why is pediatric dentistry so important?

Pediatric dentistry involves early detection and treatment of dental issues, which can prevent minor problems from becoming more complicated as the child grows. Proper dental care from a young age helps establish a solid foundation for lifelong oral hygiene habits, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

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Dr. Izaz Khan

Dentist at Ikon Dental Group

Dr. Khan holds a Bachelor's in Physiology and Neurobiology from the University of Connecticut, a Master's in Biomolecular Sciences from Central Connecticut State University, and a dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He completed his residency in comprehensive dental care at the Samuel Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, NY.