Pediatric dentists are specially trained to care for the oral health of infants and children. They have completed two to three years of additional training beyond dental school and are knowledgeable about the various conditions that can affect your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth. Most pediatric dentists provide a full range of services, from routine cleanings to more complex procedures such as root canals, crowns, and more.
In this article, we’ve explained who a pediatric dentist is and the benefits of taking your children to a pediatric dentist right from an early age.
Who is a Pediatric Dentist?
Pediatric dentists refer to the pediatricians of dentistry. Following dental school, these professionals have 2-3 years of specialized training. Their only role is to treat children’s dental problems only. They are the primary and highly informed oral caregivers for infants, children, and teens. Even the children with special needs are included.
Simple extractions, fillings, crowns, root canals, gum disease therapy, and dealing with severe damage to the mouth and teeth are all operations that pediatric dentists do. In addition, pediatric dentists are trained in child psychology to make the dental visit a positive experience for your child.
Pediatric dentists, with their expertise, play a crucial role in avoiding tooth decay and correcting incorrect biting caused by thumb sucking or extended bottle usage.
How a Pediatric Dentist Can Help
The following are some of the benefits of seeing a pediatric dentist.
They are Children Oral Health Specialists
One of the most important reasons to visit a pediatric dentist is that they focus specifically on the oral health needs of children. Children have different oral health needs than adults, which change as they grow older. At each stage in life, kids need different attention from dentists, and pediatric dentists are trained to provide this type of care.
Treat Cavities and Gum Diseases
Pediatric dentists can also help make sure that your kids do not get cavities or gum disease which can lead to tooth loss later in life. Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases, but it is also one of the most preventable diseases affecting children today. With early detection and preventive care from a pediatric dentist, your child can avoid cavities and other tooth-related problems.
The Right Environment
Pediatric dentists are trained to create a fun and friendly environment for your child. They use special techniques and methods to make your child feel comfortable and safe during each visit. These methods can include telling stories about animals that teach good oral hygiene habits or playing games while working on teeth. If your child requires sedation, pediatric dentists are trained to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
Care for Your Child’s Special Needs
Children with special needs require extra attention when it comes to dental care. Pediatric dentists have additional training in treating special needs children so that their unique needs are met during each visit.
Types of Services that Pediatric Dentists Offer
These specialists offer a variety of services as explained below;
Root canal
This type of procedure is an important one, as it helps to relieve pain. With a root canal, the dentist will clean out the infected tissue in the tooth and replace it with filling material to prevent any further decay. If an abscess has formed, the dentist may drain it as well.
Orthodontics
Pediatric dentists also offer orthodontics. Some children have crooked teeth or overbites, leading to problems with eating, speaking, and even sleeping. An orthodontist works with the patient’s jawbone to straighten out their teeth to improve their overall dental health.
Filling cavities
Pediatric dentists also fill cavities and help prevent decay through sealants, fluoride treatments, and other procedures. Sealants are placed on baby teeth to protect them from decay until they are ready for crowns or fillings. Fluoride treatments are done periodically in order to strengthen the enamel on baby teeth so that tooth decay does not occur as often.
Exams and cleanings
Pediatric dentists check your child’s teeth and gums at regular appointments. They clean your child’s teeth and help them learn the best ways to brush and floss them. Fluoride treatments or dental sealants are often advised by pediatric dentists to strengthen and protect teeth against decay. They may also take radiographs (X-rays) to look for tooth decay, especially in hard-to-see places like between teeth or beneath fillings. If your child has any cavities, pediatric dentists can repair them with composite fillings that match the color of your child’s teeth.
Treatment for gum disease
Pediatric dentists can treat gum disease in young patients. Gum disease occurs when excessive plaque builds up on the teeth, and the gums begin to pull away from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth throughout the day. If the bacterial film is not eliminated by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by professional cleaning. If left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to treat gum disease in children, including those with special needs.
When to Start Taking Your Children to a Pediatric Dentist
When should your child’s first dental visit be? According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should visit a dentist one year after the birth or within six months after the first tooth erupts. By scheduling early visits, your child will become accustomed to sitting in the dental chair, and you will learn how to take care of their teeth properly. In addition, pediatric dentists can spot potential problems early on, develop a prevention plan and help you establish good dental habits for your child.
Key Takeaway
Pediatric dentists focus on preventing, early detection, and treatment of dental diseases. They also aim to educate parents on how to keep their children’s teeth healthy. Pediatric dentists are committed to ensuring that children have a positive experience at the dentist’s office and strive to create an environment that is fun, friendly, and comfortable for children of all ages. They use kid-friendly language and avoid industry jargon when talking with patients and caregivers. In addition, pediatric dentists adjust their behavior based on the age of the child they are treating.
