INFANT/TODDLER DENTISTRY IN PHOENIX

A child’s primary teeth, commonly known as baby teeth, begin forming before the baby is even born. You are caring for your child’s teeth starting in pregnancy with a nutritious diet. Total Kids Dental is here to help you get your child started on the road to a lifetime of good oral health with infant/toddler dentistry in Phoenix and surrounding areas.

Please call (602) 610-0338 for more information and to schedule your baby’s first visit to the dentist. Contact us to learn more about our Phoenix infant & toddler dentistry services.

When to Schedule Your Child's First Dental Appointment

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking your child for their first exam with a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or within six month's of when their first tooth erupts. It is imperative that preventative dentistry begins at an early age so you can ensure that your child continues to grow with a healthy smile.

The professionals at Total Kids Dental have made it their goal to ensure that your child's initial visit is the first step in establishing a relationship with the dentist. Our team will focus on getting your child used to dental checkups and comfortable with the office, as well as enabling you to have your questions answered about your child’s dental health.

During your child’s visit to our office for infant/pediatric dentistry in Phoenix, we will perform an examination to make sure that there are no problems with the teeth or gums. In addition, we educate parents about prevention techniques to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy and how to teach good oral health habits as your child grows.

Preventing Dental Issues in Young Children

At this age, prevention is key to avoiding dental disease. For example, early childhood caries, also known as baby bottle decay, can occur in babies and toddlers. Visiting the dentist at a young age is the best way to prevent cavities and other dental problems.

Caring for the baby teeth is essential for healthy teeth and gums for life. When a child’s teeth are healthy, they are able to eat normally and less likely to experience dental pain or need dental work. Of course, if a problem should arise, our modern dental office is well equipped to handle it.

Home Dental Care Tips for Infants and Toddlers

In addition to caring for your child’s teeth and gums, we focus on educating parents and kids about dental health and answering your questions and addressing your concerns. We often get questions about bottle feeding, thumb sucking, teething, and caring for the teeth at home to prevent cavities and keep the teeth strong and healthy.

We offer advice to parents on issues such as:

• Cleaning the teeth – A wet washcloth or soft toothbrush and water can be used when your child is a baby. Under the age of 3, use just a smear of toothpaste on a soft toothbrush. After the age of 3, a pea sized amount can be used. Children under 6 are generally not able to brush and floss well on their own and need an adult’s help.
• Teething – Teething causes discomfort for many babies. You can use a teething ring, cold wet washcloth, or rub the gums with a clean finger to help with the discomfort.
• Nursing and bottles – A baby should not fall asleep with a bottle of anything but water. They should be weaned around a year of age and keep sugary drinks and juices to a maximum of one cup per day.
• Thumb sucking – Beyond the age of 3, thumb sucking can cause bite problems. We can discuss ways to manage the habit and correct any problems that may arise.

Identifying Cavities in Children's Teeth

There are several signs and symptoms that indicate that your child may have a cavity. These can include:

• An intense toothache or tooth sensitivity when biting down
• Sensitivity to extreme hot or cold temperatures when your child eats or drinks
• The case may be severe enough so that you can see the presence of a hole in the affected tooth

Whether your child needs routine preventative care or treatment for cavities or another problem, we offer infant/toddler dentistry in Phoenix with a focus on quality patient care. We are able to communicate with our patients and their parents in English, Spanish, and Farsi to meet the unique needs of every family.

Benefits of Early Dental Care for Toddlers

• Early Prevention: Instilling habits like regular brushing prevents early dental issues, setting the stage for a lifetime of oral health.
• Prevention of Decay: Starting dental care early helps prevent tooth decay and cavities in primary teeth.
• Positive Associations: Early visits to the dentist create positive associations, reducing anxiety about dental care in the future.
• Speech Development: Healthy teeth support proper speech development in toddlers.
• Nutrition Support: Good oral health aids in proper chewing, facilitating better nutrition for overall growth.
• Establishing Routine: Creating a dental routine early encourages lifelong habits, fostering responsibility for one's oral health.
• Early Detection: Regular check-ups allow for early detection of any emerging dental issues, enabling prompt intervention.
• Customized Guidance: Pediatric dentists at Total Kids Dental in Phoenix offer tailored advice for your toddler's specific needs.
• Confidence Building: A healthy smile contributes to positive self-esteem and confidence as your toddler grows.
• Education for Parents: Parents receive guidance on proper dental care, empowering them to support their toddler's oral health effectively.

Total Kids Dental in Phoenix specializes in infant and toddler dentistry, ensuring a supportive and child-friendly environment for the development of healthy dental habits from the earliest stages. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I help my child overcome dental anxiety?

Creating a positive dental experience can help your child overcome anxiety. Talk to your child about their visit in a positive and reassuring manner. You can also bring a favorite toy or blanket to help them feel more comfortable.

What is the best type of toothpaste to use for infants and toddlers?

Use a toothpaste specifically formulated for infants and toddlers, containing a small amount of fluoride.

When should I start flossing my child's teeth?

Once your child's teeth start to touch each other, you should begin flossing them to remove food particles and plaque.

What are the signs of tooth decay in infants and toddlers?

Signs of tooth decay in infants and toddlers include white spots or discoloration on the teeth, bad breath, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

Can pacifier use cause dental problems?

Prolonged pacifier use can affect the development of the palate and teeth. It's best to gradually wean your child off these habits.

Contact our office at (602) 610-0338 to schedule an appointment for your infant or toddler's dental visit in Phoenix, AZ.