When it comes to dentistry, there is a common misconception that a tooth is a tooth and a dentist is a dentist. However, adult teeth and children’s teeth, although similar, are a bit different. More importantly, pediatric dentists have special training in diagnosing, treating, and dealing with children’s teeth.
Our dentistry needs change throughout our lives. As such, it’s important to use the right type of dentist at the right times in your life.
What is pediatric dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is a form of preventative dentistry that provides specialized dental care to the developing teeth of children. Pediatric dentistry focuses on developing healthy oral habits that will last long into adulthood.
It’s recommended that children have their first dental appointment within six months of developing their first tooth. Specifically, pediatric dentists consider the natural development of gums, teeth, and bone as they provide dental care for children.
Kid specific dental treatments
Children have special requirements for their developing teeth, gums, and bones. Some children require sealants to help protect their teeth from decaying and developing cavities. Additionally, children may require fluoride treatments to keep their teeth healthy. Pediatric dentists are trained to determine when these treatments are necessary and how frequently they are needed.
Pediatric dentists are trained to engage with children
Since pediatric dentists deal specifically with children, they tend to have more experience treating children compared to general dentists or those who specialize in working with adults. Children react to their dentist differently than adults. Pediatric dentists have more experience engaging with children, calming their fears, and managing their emotions.
Pediatric dentists are also trained to educate parents about everything you need to know to keep their child’s teeth clean, including:
- What size and type of toothbrush to use
- What toothpaste to use
- Flossing and brushing techniques
- Which foods and drinks to avoid
- Answers to concerns about thumb sucking and pacifiers
They create a comfortable environment
Regardless of your age, visiting the dentist can be scary. As daunting as the experience can be for adults, it can be even worse for kids. Pediatric dentists take extra measures to create a kids friendly, compassionate, and safe environment for their young patients. Aside from smaller dental equipment to treat children, they often have play areas in their waiting rooms or televisions with children’s programming to make their patients feel at ease.
A pediatric dentist will usually tell your child exactly what they are going to do during their visit. They may even use props, such as stuffed animals, to show them what will happen (i.e. flossing, cleaning, etc.).
Preventative treatment
Children have unique needs regarding preventative care. They need to be taught proper dental habits at a young age in order to continue these habits well into adulthood. Although general dentists will educate their patients on the importance of developing healthy dental habits, most adults already understand what they need to do to maintain their oral health.
Pediatric dentistry places an emphasis on oral hygiene. They will reiterate the importance of brushing twice a day, flossing, and staying away from sugary foods and beverages. Additionally, they will help parents create a plan to motivate their children to maintain great oral hygiene.
At Dr. Tosun Dental, we offer several cutting edge technologies for pediatric patients to ensure the highest quality in pediatric preventative treatments.
- Cavity detector: Our modern pediatric cavity device detects subtle, hidden cavities between the teeth that would normally only be detected by taking through x-rays. Innovative cavity detectors avoid x-rays through light emission for accurate detection of even the smallest cavities.
- Non-invasive cavity treatment: Primarily used in pediatric dentistry to stabilize cavities, our special topical solution is applied to the treatment area to prevent the cavity from further progressing. Ideal for baby teeth, this non-invasive method avoids drilling cavities, which helps to reduce your child’s fear of the dentist.
- Sedation for anxious children: Nitrous oxide gas, also called laughing gas, is a safe and effective method to help sedate and relax children during their visit to the dentist. Not only does this reduce anxiety during their visit, but it also helps to reduce their fear which enables the doctor to work effortlessly.
What age do children transition to adult dentists?
Children start to visit their pediatric dentists once their first teeth develop. They continue to see their pediatric dentist until all of their adult teeth have developed. Once their adult teeth have grown in, you can simply transfer to a general dentist within your family practice.
Dr. Tosun Dental Clinic
At Dr. Tosun Dental Clinic, our main priority is a safe journey and a great dental experience for your children. As we continue to serve our community during these times you can rest assured knowing you are in safe hands. Contact our clinic by phone or by visiting our website to schedule your child’s first dental appointment today.
