What Does a Pediatric Dentistry Do?
A child’s teeth start developing around seven months and continue to grow until they reach maturity between ages 17 to 20. Because they receive two sets of teeth during their childhood, it is important to teach them proper dental hygiene to protect the teeth. It is vital to seek out pediatric dentistry near you to have your child’s teeth taken care of properly.
Who is a Pediatric Dentist?
Pediatric dentists provide dental care for children and adolescents– from infancy to young adulthood. This includes preventive and restorative oral health care.
A pediatric dentist is a dentist who has completed training in the specialty of dentistry in pediatrics.
Although some people have family dentists, it is advisable to visit a pediatric dentist. Pediatricians are specialized doctors for children, whereas family dentists provide services for the entire family.
What Types of Services Do Pediatric Dentists Offer?
Pediatric dentistry services include preventive and restorative treatments for children.
- Preventive services
Preventive dental treatments are the most effective way to keep your teeth and gums healthy, as well as your smile looking bright, white, and shiny. Regular dentist visits can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, cavities, and fillings.
- Dental Examination
A dental examination involves an assessment of your child’s teeth, gums, and jaws to check for any abnormalities.
A dental examination is done using various tools, including but not limited to x-ray machines, magnifying glasses, specula, probe tips, etc.
- Dental cleaning
Pediatric dental cleaning is a process that removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. It should be performed regularly because it can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Dental sealants
Sealants are tooth sealants that protect the tooth against decay and damage. They are placed over the pits and fissures to make sure that they are protected from bacteria.
Dental sealants are mainly used in children with permanent teeth, but adults can benefit from them if their teeth do not have caries or cavities.
Sealants come in different types, and each one has its advantages and disadvantages, but all of them effectively prevent dental decay.
- Fluoride treatment
Fluoride treatment prevents tooth decay and gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. It strengthens the teeth and adds a protective barrier to these areas of the teeth that contain enamel.
It also increases saliva production, which prevents food debris from sticking to teeth.
- Restorative pediatric dental treatment
This dental treatment is an option for children who have suffered damage to their teeth due to trauma or disease.
- Pediatric dental crowns
Dental crowns are used to cover teeth that are damaged by decay, trauma, or other factors.
Pediatric dental crowns prevent children from experiencing pain when eating and drinking. Dental crowns also protect against further damage to teeth and gums while preventing bacterial growth in between teeth.
- Pediatric root canal
A pediatric root canal is a procedure that removes the decay and disease from the bottom portion of a tooth, which is also called a pulp.
Most of us think that a root canal is a procedure to remove the decay from the tooth, but it is a process that removes the diseased part of a tooth. The treatment can be done in an outpatient setting or as an emergency at a dental clinic.
The First Dental Visit, When Should It Be?
It is vital to schedule your child’s first dental visit at the right age and time because regular check-ups will help detect and treat issues early on.
Some children may need an annual dental visit, while others may require more frequent visits. It all depends on age, oral habits, and needs. Children should have a pediatric dentist examine their teeth to ensure gums are healthy. On average, children should have their first dental check-up by their first birthday.
What Happens During Your Child’s First Dental Visit?
While it is hard to believe that your child’s first dental visit will be an enjoyable one, we must remember that they are just scared and excited.
The first visit typically lasts for about an hour, but usually, children are instructed to bring a toy or a favorite book to distract from the pain.
The dentist will examine your child’s teeth and gums and also clean any plaque buildup.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Tamborello Dentistry for more information if you are looking for the best pediatric dentistry in Magnolia.