Pediatric Dentistry
What is Pediatric Dentistry?
Paediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that focuses on children from infancy to adolescence.When should I bring my child to the dentist for their first visit?
Your child should be seen by a dentist as soon as you see the first tooth appear in his or her mouth, and no later than his or her first birthday. The initial appointment will be simply an introduction of the dental office to your child. Your dentist will also go over important tips to keep your child teeth healthly such as diet conselling and oral hygiene instructions.My child is afraid of the dentist what should I do?
A child's first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. Our office makes a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment. We want you to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office.Are baby teeth important?
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. Some baby teeth fall out when your child is 6-8 years old, but others remain until they are 11-13 years old. If a child loses a tooth too early – due to damage or decay – nearby teeth may encroach on that space, which can result in crooked or misplaced permanent teeth. Also, your child's general health is affected by the oral health of the teeth and gums.How often should my child visit the dentists?
We generally recommend scheduling checkups every six months. Regular dental visits help your child stay cavity-free. Teeth cleanings remove bacteria that build up on the teeth, irritate the gums and cause decay. Fluoride treatments renew the fluoride content in the enamel, strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. Hygiene instructions improve your child's brushing and flossing, leading to cleaner teeth and healthier gums.Tooth decay isn't the only reason for a dental visit. Your dentist provides an ongoing assessment of changes in your child's oral health. For example, your child may need additional fluoride, dietary changes, or sealants for ideal dental health. The dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.