What makes pediatric dentists? Read on to learn more. Tooth decay is fairly common in children, but it’s preventable with proper oral care and hygiene. Not to mention, if children develop better brushing and flossing habits at a younger age, they’re more likely to retain them as they grow older.
This emphasizes the need for parents to take their children to regular dentist appointments. If a child suffers from different oral issues, the best person to show them to is a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children with dental issues.
They specialize in addressing oral issues in infants to teenagers. While it’s true that children have a longstanding fear of seeing the dentist, it is also necessary when treating dental issues properly and immediately. Mentioned below is everything you need to know about pediatric dentists and why you may need to visit one for your child.
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Who is a Pediatric Dentist?
Pediatric dentists cater to children’s oral health starting from infancy through teens. To receive a pediatric dentistry qualification, they have to get a specific degree related to treating oral issues, such as tooth decay, in children. During the first 6 months, children begin to grow their baby teeth. They gradually lose them once they reach 6 or 7 years of age. Then, they grow permanent teeth, which require effective dental care. Pediatric dentists guide children on how to look after their teeth in this crucial stage to prevent the occurrence of any further dental issues. Dental issues, such as cavities, are 50% more common in children’s primary teeth, according to a few researchers. This requires the skills of a pediatric dentist to treat issues before it gets worse.
What do Pediatric Dentists cater to?
As you already know, pediatric dentists are those who treat oral and dental issues specifically related to children. Every child is different and faces various dental issues; hence the treatments provided by pediatric dentists are very diverse. Mentioned below are a few things pediatric dentists carry out in the field of dentistry:
Carry Out Filings
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues that occur in kids. According to the CDC, almost 20 percent of children experience them from the ages of 5 to 11. The best way to treat cavities is through fillings so that your teeth can resume their normal functions. A pediatric dentist has the training to perform fillings in smaller mouths. Thanks to their extensive practice, they can ensure that a child feels comfortable and gets through it easily.
Fix Braces
Many pediatric dentists also offer orthodontic services for children. It is very common for children to get braces at an early age, and a pediatric dentist can help keep up with the progress. At the same time, they can point out any issues that may affect their braces.
Take X-Rays
With the help of an x-ray, pediatric dentists can detect any crucial issues that could be causing gum or tooth pain. After thoroughly diagnosing the issue, they can provide your child with adequate treatment. These x-rays usually help detect issues in the alignment of your child’s teeth before they begin to emerge.
Carry Out Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are another treatment that pediatric dentists offer for children. This is more of a preventative treatment, which is totally painless and very quick. It consists of applying fluoride varnish on the top and sides of each tooth with the help of a small brush.
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Daily Checkups
Routine checkups are very important when it comes to taking care of your child’s dental health. You can ask your child’s pediatric dentist to keep you updated with their oral health and if any treatment is required. Frequent checkups can prove beneficial as they involve the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth to prevent issues from exacerbating. Parents need to realize that taking their children for regular checkups with their pediatric dentists is essential.
What to Expect At Your First Pediatric Dentist Visit?
A pediatric dentist’s clinic is usually of a different environment compared to those of a normal dentist for adults. This is to make children feel safe and comfortable. During your child’s first visit, you can expect a few things to take place:
- The pediatric dentist will start off with a small discussion about your child’s oral health and ask you a few questions to understand where they stand.
- Next, the pediatric dentist will carry out a proper examination to check your child’s overall oral health.
- Lastly, he/she will carry out teeth polishing and remove plaque if any
If there are any abnormalities or issues in your child’s oral health, a pediatric dentist will help detect that. Remember, the sooner you take your child to see one, the faster the dentist will be able to detect before the issue worsens.
Pediatric Dentists: Conclusion
Take your child to the best pediatric dentists in Staten Island NY at Ideal Smiles Dental. Schedule an appointment today for immediate and effective dental care!