Infants Oral Health Care

There is a common misconception that baby teeth are less important to maintain because they are not permanent. The reality is baby teeth act as a place holder for permanent adult teeth, and it is important to keep decay off baby teeth otherwise it will be difficult for them to chew and speak clearly.

Caring for baby teeth won’t require a traditional toothbrush and floss at first; it will however require a soft moistened washcloth or piece of gauze. With the cloth you will wipe down the baby’s gums a minimum of twice a day and more importantly before feedings and when it is time for bed. Doing so will keep bacteria and plaque from forming on the gums.

Once baby teeth start begin to develop, parents should gently brush their teeth until their child is able to hold the toothbrush in which it is time to show them the proper oral hygiene procedures. Taking care of your baby’s gums prior to teeth care will help with the development of clean and healthy baby teeth.

Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, operates at 2720 North Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, California, 92835. For more information on our services visit our website at www.fullertondental.com. To schedule an appointment, call 714-879-7943 or visit Fullerton Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

Bad Breath

Bad breath, medically called halitosis, can result from poor dental health habits and may be a sign of other health problems. Foods with strong odors will also cause bad breath and will not go away until the foods have completely passed through your body. Not brushing and flossing daily leaves particles and other bacteria on your teeth, gums, and tongue which can lead to bad breath. Tobacco use of any kind also leads to bad breath and is damaging to oral hygiene.

Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may be a warning sign of gum (periodontal) disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria creating toxins that irritate the gums. The cure to fixing bad breath is simple, maintain good oral hygiene, don’t smoke, and see your dentist regularly. While food with strong odors can cause bad breath, although it is temporary while gum disease is not.

Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, operates at 2720 North Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, California, 92835. For more information on our services visit our website at www.fullertondental.com. To schedule an appointment, call 714-879-7943 or visit Fullerton Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

Canker Sores

Canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develops on the soft tissue in your mouth and at the base of your gums. Canker sores aren’t contagious but are extremely painful when eating and drinking.

Canker sores are round or oval shape and have a white or yellowish color to them, usually lasting between 1-2 weeks. While eating and drinking a burning or tingling sensation can occur and is unpleasant. Larger canker sores may be a cause for concern and it is recommended you see a dentist for a diagnosis.

Because canker sores usually heal naturally after a week or two, there aren’t many cures but rinsing your mouth with warm salt water helps along with baking soda mix can help. The rinsing is most effective when done after eating and should be done a few times throughout the day.

There are no distinct cures for canker sores but food sensitivity and other disease can trigger canker sores.

Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, operates at 2720 North Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, California, 92835. For more information on our services visit our website at www.fullertondental.com. To schedule an appointment, call 714-879-7943 or visit Fullerton Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

Sealants

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are designed to protect the chewing surfaces of children’s back teeth from cavities, or tooth decay. Grooves form on the surfaces of children’s back teeth and create a rough and uneven surface. Dr. Eric Meyer suggests sealants for children with molars developed.

It is recommended that children get sealants as soon as their molars develop to prevent future decay on the teeth. Molars first come in for children around age 6 and the second set of molars come in at age 12. Adding sealants to teeth are quick and painless with a liquid coat put on the teeth and hardening over the teeth for protection.

Good oral hygiene habits start at a young age and sealants combined with brushing, flossing, and regular trips to the dentist, children develop a good foundation and healthy teeth for years to come.

Dr. Eric Meyer of Fullerton Dental offers sealants for children that can be done in one visit.

Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, operates at 2720 North Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, California, 92835. For more information on our services visit our website at www.fullertondental.com To schedule an appointment, call 714-879-7943 or visit Fullerton Dental and fill out a contact sheet.