A pediatric dentist is a dentist who focuses on the oral health of children from infancy throughout their teenage years. Pediatric dentists have additional training which gives them the qualification and expertise needed to care for a child’s teeth, gums, and mouth.
Most children will start getting their baby teeth within their first six months. Beginning around 6 or 7 years old, children start losing their baby or primary teeth. Once the baby teeth fall out, they are replaced with the permanent adult or secondary teeth. Children who do not receive proper dental care often experience tooth decay and gum disease. This issues lead to pain, discomfort, and additional complications. Pediatric dental caries, which is an infectious disease, is about 5 times more common than asthma.
Pediatric Dentist Training
Pediatric dentists are required to complete four years of dental school and at least two additional years of residency training in dentistry. This residency training focuses on caring for the oral health of infants, children, teens, and any patient with disabilities or special needs.
Pediatric dentists provide comprehensive oral care which can include the following:
1. Complete oral health care
2. Infant oral health exams
3. Preventive dental care
4. Professional cleanings
5. Fluoride treatments
6. Nutritional guidance and diet recommendations
7. Counseling on habits that can impact children; this can include thumb sucking and pacifier use
8. Assessments and initial orthodontic treatment for crooked teeth and bite correction
9. Repair of cavities
10. Diagnose oral conditions associated with diseases such as asthma, hay fever, diabetes, congenital heart defects, and attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
11. Help manage gum disease
12. Treat and care for dental injuries including fractured, damaged, or lost teeth
Pediatric dentists can practice in various types of locations. This often includes private practice, dental schools, and medical centers. Your child’s pediatrician can be an excellent resource for finding a good pediatric dentist in the area. It can also be helpful to ask family members and other parents in the area.
Children should not be defined as small adults and should not be treated the same as an adult during a dental visit. Children often have a low tolerance for sitting still for extended period of time. As a result, it can be a struggle for children to be patient and compliant during a dental exam. Children are often curious, and new settings can be overwhelming for them. Pediatric dentists receive special training in how to complete an examination and provide excellent care. During the exam, the pediatric dentist works diligently to ensure the child remains comfortable and receives any necessary treatment. Pediatric dentists use special equipment which is designed to be used for children. They also use specific language which is comforting to the child. Pediatric dentists also work closely with the child’s parent or caregiver to provide instruction and answer any questions. It is important for the pediatric dentist to communicate well with the child and adult.
Pediatric dentists are unique in that they offer a wide variety of treatments and provide care exclusively for children. They also have special training and experience in providing care for a child’s teeth, gums, and mouth. When the time comes for a child to make their first visit to the dentist, know that they are in good hands. Pediatric dentist have a passion for the oral health of children and are committed to providing excellent care.