DENTIST FOR TODDLERS – PROSPER, TX
Just Like Each Penguin Is Unique, Every Smile Is Too
As your child inches into toddlerhood, their eating habits will change along with them becoming more mobile and curious. Naturally, these things will also impact their smile, leading to a higher risk of dental emergencies, cavities, and more. Fortunately, with the support of their pediatric dentist in Prosper, Dr. Peng, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that if your little one needs help, we’re just a call away. Just like penguins, you’re a part of our colony and we stick together!
Why Choose Little Penguin Pediatric Dentistry for Toddler Dental Care?
- Family-Owned & Operated Dental Practice
- Caring & Friendly Certified Pediatric Dentist
- We Care About Patients, Not Numbers
Toddler Teeth Development
Your child’s toddler years will be the most active in terms of oral development. Between the ages of one and three, they’ll grow approximately 20 teeth, which amounts to one or two teeth erupting each month. Additionally, with the introduction of solid foods, like milk, fish, apples, and more, as well as thumb-sucking, they’ll be using their pearly whites for other tasks besides simply nursing. That’s why at this age, routine dental checkups and cleanings with Dr. Peng are incredibly important!
What Is Teething?
Teething can begin as early as three months, but it’s most commonly known to occur whenever teeth begin erupting through the gumline and carry on throughout their remaining toddler years. This is when your child may begin drooling more and wanting to chew on various items, like toys. It’s also known to cause irritability and crankiness, like crying, disrupted sleep, and a change in eating behaviors. This is because the gums around their emerging teeth are inflamed, tender, and irritable. Dr. Peng can help you navigate this period of time by providing helpful tips and tricks on how to soothe their discomfort without harming their new teeth or gums.
How to Clean Your Toddler’s Teeth and Gums
Between one and three years old, you can start introducing them to their toothbrush and even toothpaste (albeit, a smear-sized amount). Using a child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush, you can gently clean their newly visible teeth, being sure to make gentle, circular motions at an angle. Before the age of three, you’ll want to use a rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Once they’re over three years old, you can upgrade to a pea-sized amount. Don’t forget to brush their tongue as well, as that’s where bacteria and food debris love to settle!