Dentistry Pediatric

The primary or baby teeth appear at 6 months of age, starting with the lower central incisors. By the age of 3 years, a total of 20 teeth should have erupted. A significant fact is that the teeth form from the sixth week of pregnancy, so they may appear earlier than expected.

Once their first incisors appear, between 6 and 12 months of age. The visit will not be to treat cavities or toothaches. The idea is that both the child and his or her parents learn from the specialist how to take care of oral health. In the pediatric dentistry consultation, risk factors will be pointed out and good practices will be recommended to prevent diseases.

From the moment they appear. Even before, it is advisable to gently clean the baby's gums using a gauze or wet wipe. As soon as their milk teeth grow, it will be necessary to use a toothbrush and toothpaste, taking care that they are appropriate for little ones. Oral hygiene during the first years of life is the parents' job; children do not have the skills for efficient cleaning.

Cleaning with toothpaste is mandatory, at least twice a day. Toothpaste with 1000 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride is recommended. For children between 6 months and 3 years of age, the portion is minimal, it should not exceed the size of a grain of rice. Between 3 and 5 years of age, the equivalent of a pea is added to the toothbrush. Then, the ration will increase. For children 6 years and older, the recommended amount of fluoride is 1,450 ppm, the same as for adults, but with less fluoride in the toothbrush.

Baby teeth perform primary functions, allowing for proper chewing and speaking. They maintain the space for the teeth that come underneath and give aesthetics to the face. Taking care that children's teeth are free of cavities is to guarantee their oral health also in adulthood.

If the tooth breaks, it is urgent to see a pediatric dentist for appropriate treatment. Traumatisms should not be ignored in order to prevent possible internal affections. In addition, if the tooth is completely expelled, the specialist can try to implant it.