What Is Pediatric Dentistry?

What Is Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry is a special field of dentistry that focuses on the oral health of children. It’s important for parents to understand how childrens dentistry differs from traditional dental care, and what it means for their kids’ teeth. 

If you would like to know more about what pediatric dentistry is, what conditions this type of dentistry can treat, and why you should visit a pediatric dentist, feel free to continue reading down below.

What Is A Pediatric Dentist?

A pediatric dentist is a specialist who treats children and their teeth. More specifically, they focus on dental health for those under 18 years old at regular intervals and are there to anticipate age-related oral health milestones. Additionally, pediatric dentists can work with families to create an individualised treatment plan for each child or adolescent patient so that they can maintain a consistently good oral condition, including regular check ups

What Conditions Can Pediatric Dentists Treat?

Children and adolescents might experience a wide range of oral health issues as they grow older. Because of this, there are many conditions that pediatric dentists can treat. They include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Cavities 
  • Toothaches
  • Tooth decay
  • Teeth grinding
  • Mouth infection, sores, or tumours
  • Gum disease
  • Discolouration in teeth
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Oral trauma such as chipped or broken teeth or tooth loss
  • Jaw disorders or trauma

What Treatments Do Pediatric Dentists Provide?

Pediatric dentists are able to offer a comprehensive and extensive range of treatments for children and adolescents. These treatments and services include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Oral health exam
  • Removal of cavities
  • Teeth cleaning
  • Injury repair for trauma-related injuries such as broken teeth
  • Gum disease treatment 
  • Extractions
  • Crowning
  • Fillings
  • Sealants
  • Fluoride treatments
What Is Pediatric Dentistry

Reasons To Pay A Visit To A Pediatric Dentist

These days, most people are aware of the importance of visiting a pediatric dentist. But what about those who don’t know where they should go? Here are a couple of reasons why your child will need an appointment with a pediatric dentist:

1). As a parent of an infant, toddler, or child, it is important you find the best dental care possible for them. A pediatric dentist will make sure that your children’s teeth and gums stay healthy through cleaning treatments and proper brushing techniques. This way, your child can enjoy their childhood without any discomfort from poor oral hygiene practices!

2). Healthy teeth are the foundations of good health. If your child has cavities, misaligned teeth, or missing panels of enamel, they may have an oral condition that is compromising their ability to eat properly and maintain a healthy diet. A pediatric dentist can identify these problems and begin treatment early with the necessary follow-ups. Moreover, a pediatric dentist ensures all necessary dental work has been done on time to prevent potential issues early on.

3). The first time visiting an adult dental clinic might be overwhelming. You don’t know what to expect or how they work, all the more the same for your child. A pediatric dentist is specially trained to ensure that your child has the most comfortable and welcoming dental experience possible. The first few dental visits are an important time for children, so their expectations will vary greatly depending upon where you go with this appointment! 

With all this being said, a pediatric dentist is a great resource for any child. Child-friendly practices offer an environment that breeds positivity and confidence when it comes to oral health care habits going forward!

What To Expect From A Pediatric Dentist

When you visit a pediatric dentist, you can expect to be welcomed into a friendly and warm environment. Pediatric dentists understand that dental visits can be quite scary for children, so they’ll do the best they can to make sure that your child feels comfortable throughout the procedure. You may even find special equipment, toys, and other fun things to help keep your child at ease. 

During a visit to a pediatric dentist, they will most likely give you a brief overview of your child’s oral health, perform an examination of your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw, and clean the teeth to remove signs of plaque or tartar. If you have any questions about how to maintain proper oral health for children, a pediatric dentist will be more than happy to answer your questions.

Summary 

Pediatric dentistry is a unique field of dentistry that specialises in the oral health care needs of children. Dental professionals must be specially trained to work with kids because their teeth are still developing and they may have special dental needs due to braces, cavities, or previous treatments for tooth decay. If your child is under 18 years old, it’s important that you take them to see a pediatric dentist every six months so they can maintain healthy teeth throughout their lifetime!

If you are looking for a trustworthy and reliable dentist in North Adelaide, then please contact us at North Adelaide Smiles on 08 8244 3144 to make an appointment or leave an enquiry.