Children’s Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry is a branch of dental science that deals with the dental health of children from birth until they reach adolescence. Children can be uncomfortable while visiting the dentist as they are unsure about the actual experience and may have a negative impression. But, pediatric dentists are usually trained for 2 to 3 years before they enter the profession. Pediatric dentists pay maximum attention to the teeth as most children suffer from cavities due to improper care. They also deal with educating the parents about how to take care of their child’s teeth.

Common pediatric treatments

• Taking preventive measures such as fluoride treatment, diet recommendation, brushing and flossing guide, etc.
• If the child suffers from cavities, then the decayed tooth would be disinfected by getting rid of the bacteria. The cavity would then be filled using dental cement.
• If the child suffers from improper bite or misalignment of teeth, then corrective devices such as braces or Invisalign® will be suggested by the dentist. Installing braces would require a surgery and the pediatric dentist would do it him/herself.
• When a child suffers damaged teeth (broken, fractured or chipped) from external trauma, the dentist corrects them using either dental cement, crowns or veneers. If the damage is severe, then the tooth may have to be removed completely.
• Sometimes, the milk teeth of young children tend to get stuck in the socket of the jawbone and refuse to fall off. This would cause the permanent teeth below them to get displaced. Pediatric dentists help remove the milk teeth just before the permanent teeth emerge.
• When a child has got braces installed, it would require regular follow-ups. The dentist repositions the metal studs if required and tightens the wires of the braces in order to alter the pressure applied to the teeth.
• When a child suffers from gum related diseases such as bleeding or receding gums, a pediatric dentist examines them and suggests a suitable treatment for it.
• Whether the child’s dental setup is healthy or not, regular check-ups are in order to ensure the better oral health and to spot any possible signs of decay or gum related problems.
• Monitoring the growth and development of a child’s teeth and jaws. Any lumps, ulcers, discoloration, and swelling in the oral setup are diagnosed by a pediatric dentist.

The growth and development of a child’s teeth must also be closely monitored by the parents. Misalignment of teeth and improper bite would ruin the child’s smile for good. Hence, regular visits to a pediatric dentist are very necessary.