Pediatric Dentistry

What does pediatric dentistry include?

Pediatric dentistry involves using sealants to prevent cavities and tooth decay on a child’s back molars. This preventive treatment works by applying a thin acrylic coating over the teeth, which hardens and keeps out unwanted bacteria and plaque that could otherwise harm the teeth.

In addition, using fluoride applications to strengthen your child’s tooth enamel is extremely helpful in preventing decay. This process involves applying fluoride directly to the teeth, bonding the enamel and helping to keep teeth strong and healthy. It can even reverse decay.

What is a pediatric dentist?

Pediatric dentists are focused on the oral health of children from infancy through the teenage years. They have the expertise and qualifications to provide dental care for children’s teeth, gums, and mouths during all stages of childhood. Pediatric dentists complete at least four years of dental school and undergo an additional two years of residency training in dentistry for infants, children, teenagers, and children with special needs.

What are the common issues of dental health in children?

Children can experience many of the same dental problems as adults. However, because children’s teeth are still developing, untreated dental issues can lead to poor and misaligned tooth development, causing more serious problems as they grow up. Some common dental issues in children include:

• tooth decay
• bad breath
• sensitive teeth
• thumb-sucking
• gum disease
• teeth grinding
• canker sores
• early loss of baby teeth
• retained primary teeth
• dental anxiety

What is pulp therapy?

If your child complains about tooth sensitivity, constant pain, or if the tissue around a tooth is swollen and painful, they may have pulp damage. Pulp damage can occur due to trauma, decay, or infection. The ‘pulp’ is the live part of the tooth.

It is important to retain as much of the living pulp as possible while treating the infection or removing any damaged sections. One way to do this is with a pulpotomy.

A pulpotomy can be performed if the pulp root is unaffected and only the tip of the pulp is damaged. If the root is healthy, all decay will be removed, and material will be placed over the remaining pulp to protect it. Finally, a crown will be placed. By saving the pulp, your child has a greater chance of producing a healthy adult tooth.

If the damage has extended into the tooth root, a pulpectomy is performed. In this case, all of the living material is removed, and the space is filled, similar to an adult root canal. When the adult tooth is ready to come in, a crown will be placed to help with spacing.

How to create a positive dental experience for kids?

We know that a child’s early dental experiences can shape their attitude towards dental care for life. Our friendly and experienced team is dedicated to creating a welcoming and stress-free environment. We use gentle techniques and positive reinforcement to help children feel at ease. Our office is designed with children in mind, featuring a kid-friendly atmosphere and activities to make their visit enjoyable.

Tips for Parents

• Start Early: Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.
• Be a Role Model: Demonstrate good oral hygiene habits at home and encourage your child to brush and floss daily.
• Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude about dental visits to help your child feel more comfortable.