Pediatric dentists undergo additional training beyond general dentistry that qualifies them to care for children’s teeth, gums, and oral health from infancy into adulthood. Pediatric dentists also understand the best ways to deal with patients who may not be so good at cooperating while being examined, providing multiple stimuli to entertain the child while painlessly examining their mouth and teeth. Their specially designed dental tools are small enough to fit into tighter corners without hurting the gums, and their offices are designed to comfort and accommodate children through their various stages of development. Many pediatric dentists provide a wide range of stimuli so that young patients are entertained, and their offices tend to be comfortable and accommodating, creating a welcoming environment for children of all ages. It is recommended that children visit their pediatric dentist by the age of one, which is, on average, about six months after the eruption of the first primary tooth, and continue to visit their pediatric dentist at least twice a year throughout their childhood. When children reach adulthood, they may prefer to see a general dentist, though pediatric dentists are qualified to treat patients of any age.
Most children have at least one primary tooth by the time they’re six months old, and when they’re around seven, their primary teeth start to fall out to make room for the secondary teeth. These secondary teeth are meant to be permanent, which means they need to be cared for properly. It also means they should be allowed to erupt into a mouth that is healthy and free from disease, and the best way to ensure both of these things is to help children establish excellent oral hygiene routines from a very young age. Even though the primary teeth are temporary, when they’re affected by disease or decay, a lifetime of issues can arise, and regular visits to a pediatric dentist can help prevent these problems and lay the groundwork for a healthy future. Additionally, it’s not unusual for adults to have dental anxieties that stem from adverse experiences at the dentist during childhood, and pediatric dentists are trained to take this into consideration and provide an experience that’s pleasant and relaxing for children. This establishes trust and encourages adherence to routine visits, which are an integral part of the early detection of potentially destructive conditions like gum disease or tooth decay.
All dentists must complete four years of dental school to receive their doctoral degree. Pediatric dentists are required to have two additional years of residency that focuses specifically on infants, children through adolescence, and young people with special needs. Comprehensive pediatric dental examinations can include a variety of different approaches, depending on the developmental stage of the patient and their clinical needs. Pediatric dentists examine infants to assess their oral health and determine their risk of tooth decay. When more teeth are present, preventative pediatric dental care includes routine cleanings and cleaning instruction, fluoride treatments, and nutritional and dietary recommendations based on the dental evaluation and the condition of the oral cavity. If necessary, pediatric dentists can provide counseling on breaking destructive habits like thumb sucking, which can lead to problems with tooth alignment, and they can provide early assessment for bite correction and straightening of misaligned teeth. When defects like dental cavities are present, pediatric dentists can repair these defects and restore the structure of the teeth.
Pediatric dentists can also be instrumental in the early diagnosis of conditions like diabetes, asthma, ADHD, and congenital heart defects, each of which can have symptoms that manifest in the oral cavity. When pediatric periodontal disease or other congenital issues are present, pediatric dentists can work as part of a dental team to manage these conditions, and they can treat gum disease in children and young adults when it is in its earlier stages and is still reversible. Children sustain an awful lot of dental injuries while running, playing, or riding their bikes, and pediatric dentists can care for injuries like knocked-out or broken teeth or teeth that have been otherwise displaced. Your pediatrician can help you find a reputable pediatric dentist near you, and you can meet with the dentist and dental staff before taking your child for their first visit so you feel good about the experience going into it. The office should feel safe and comfortable, with a variety of accommodations for children of varying ages. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during your visit, making sure to address any concerns you might have; after all, you’re setting your child up for a lifelong relationship, so why not make sure it’s a good one?