Inculcating good oral habits in your children is essential to establish a strong foundation for their permanent dentition. These habits pave the way for a smooth transition into adulthood and also decide 

The orthodontist in Fullerton, CA, and their team of pediatric dentists strive to create a friendly environment for their young patients. They offer comprehensive and compassionate pediatric dentistry for every child. 

A guide to pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry, also known as pedodontics, is a branch of dentistry that deals with the evaluation and management of dental problems in children. It focuses on the maintenance and improvement of oral health in children. You must begin assessing your child’s oral health the moment their first tooth arrives and continue caring for their teeth as they grow old. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to treat babies and teenagers up to age 18.

The importance of pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry focuses on primary oral care among children since they are at an increased risk of developing dental problems. This is due to unhealthy eating habits and poor oral hygiene. When oral health is neglected, the body suffers, and your child is unable to eat or drink anything, leading to nutritional deficiencies. Caring for baby teeth is important since it paves the way for permanent teeth and forms a foundation that needs to be strong. Regular parent and patient education and decay prevention are the top goals of pediatric dentistry. 

It also aims to reduce anxiety and fear among young children by providing a relaxing environment to instill a positive attitude towards dentists. Furthermore, through primary oral care, dental issues can be detected early and treated effectively to prevent future complications. 

The list of treatments offered in pediatric dentistry

Depending on your child’s age and oral health needs, pediatric dentists offer the following procedures:

Oral exams and X-rays: Dental exams and X-rays help detect any underlying decay or other problems (such as abscesses) from the permanent teeth that have not erupted.

Teeth cleaning: Special ultrasonic instruments gently remove debris or plaque from the tooth surface. It is advisable to visit the dentist every 6 months for maintenance.

Dental sealants: These are special coatings that form a protective layer on the tooth surface to prevent plaque and bacteria from harming the enamel layer.  

Fluoride treatment: Fluorides help remineralize the enamel layer which can prevent or halt tooth decay.

Fillings/restorations: Dentists can effectively restore the child’s tooth using traditional metal or tooth-colored fillings.

Takeaway 

Pediatric dentistry specialists possess the expertise to effectively address the needs of young children, alleviating any apprehension they may have. They foster a tranquil atmosphere conducive to promoting positive dental experiences, nurturing children’s oral health, and fostering a sense of ease with dental care.