>> When does a baby's teeth develop? >> Are baby teeth really important to my child? >> What is baby bottle tooth decay? >> When should I bring my child to the dentist? >> What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist? >> How should I prepare my child for a dental visit? >> What causes decay? When does a baby's teeth develop? Believe it or not, the primary teeth are some of the first structures to form in a baby during pregnancy. Teeth begin to form in the second month and begin to calcify between the third and six months of pregnancy. Good health habits are important for the development of the baby. Unless a physician recommends otherwise, pregnant women should remember to consume dairy products, which are the best sources for calcium, phosphorous, protein, while balancing the intake of vitamins A, C and D - the main building blocks for bones and teeth. Poor nutrition may result in poorly formed tooth enamel and make a child more likely to develop dental decay once the teeth have erupted. >> back to top Are baby teeth really important to my child? Primary or "baby" teeth, are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. >> back to top What is baby bottle tooth decay? One serious form of tooth decay among young children is early childhood decay, also known as baby bottle tooth decay. This is caused by frequent and long exposure of an infant's teeth to liquids that contain sugar, such as milk (including breast milk), formula, fruit juice and other sweetened drinks. Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting them to bed with a bottle. Learn proper techniques for brushing and flossing and schedule your child's first dental visit by age 1. >> back to top When should I bring my child to the dentist? The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) agree and recommend that parents take children to the dentist by the child's first birthday. During this initial visit, you may discuss such things as adverse habits like thumbsucking, identify your child's flouride needs, assess any risk for dental disease, initiate a preventive program, provide guidance and decide on the number of subsequent visits. >> back to top What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist? A general dentist is a universal dental professional trained to treat patients of all ages. A pediatric dentist has an additional 2 - 3 years of specialized training and specifically treats patients ages 0 - 18 years. The pediatric dental community set pediatric dental policies for the dental profession; provide family dental education and early detection of oral health problems for babies by their first birthday; practice sedation dentistry for young uncooperative patients with dental needs; care for patients with physical, emotional and cognitive disabilities; work in hospital settings; provide interdisciplinary dental treatments for patients with medical implications, genetic disabilities, maxillofacial defects and more. >> back to top How should I prepare my child for a dental visit? Every child is different, and although the clinical results may be the same, every encounter is unique. Our team will tailor the dental experience to each child. Parents can take an active role by remaining positive about dental visits. Set a good example by brushing your own teeth twice a day, using floss between your teeth once a day and visiting your dentist regularly. Attitudes and habits established at an early age are critical in helping your child maintain good oral health throughout life. >> back to top What causes decay? Decay is caused by dental plaque - a thin, sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that constantly forms on everyone's teeth. When sugar is eaten, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. After repeated acid attacks, the enamel breaks down and a cavity is formed. >> back to top