Pediatric dentistry is specialized in caring for children’s teeth and gums. While pediatric dentists can be found in general practices, they are more common in private or hospital settings.
The primary goal of pediatric dental specialists is to focus on dental care to preserve and protect the developing teeth and jaw bone structure and prevent disease. Discussed below are some dental services offered by dental specialists.
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialty in dentistry that focuses on correcting the improper alignment of teeth. If you have crooked or crowded teeth, orthodontic treatment can straighten them.
The goal of orthodontic treatment is to provide the best possible natural smile in harmony with the rest of your face. The result should be a beautiful smile that’s easy to maintain and care for throughout life. Some people may choose not to get their braces removed because they like how they look!
Tooth Brushing
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends brushing at least twice daily for two minutes. A soft-bristled toothbrush with a rounded head is best for children under six. If you have concerns about oral health, talk with the dentist before starting a regular brushing routine.
Some general guidelines apply regarding what type of toothpaste to use on your little one’s pearly whites. It should contain fluoride (a substance proven to strengthen teeth) and be age-appropriate, meaning only very young children should use bubble-gum-flavored varieties.
When it comes down to choosing between gel or paste options, though—what everyone has used their whole lives isn’t always suitable for every situation, so experiment till you find what works best for everyone involved.
Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking is also known as onychophagia. Your child may suck her thumb without even realizing she’s doing it, but you may notice the telltale marks that develop around her fingers—the sign of frequent sucking.
Thumb sucking can cause problems with jaw alignment, damage to the roof of the mouth, and make it hard for your child to speak clearly. If your pediatric dentist notices thumb sucking during an examination or checkup, he may recommend a mouth guard to prevent this habit from becoming bad!
Tooth Eruption
Teeth erupt in a specific order and at different rates. Pediatric dental specialists treat it as a major issue of oral health, which may also result in tooth decay. It can happen at any age and time due to their jaws being mistreated or broken areas in their jaws. In children, it is most common because the jaws of children are still growing, so your child’s teeth must erupt correctly. If they erupt too early or late, there can be problems.
Cavity Prevention
The first line of defense against cavities is prevention. Both parents and children can be taught how to care for their teeth, which includes avoiding excess sugar, brushing twice a day, and using fluoride treatments and dental sealants. Cavity prevention is a lifelong process; it’s not something you do only until your permanent teeth come in.
Conclusion
Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that deals with children. It includes several dental services, including general checkups, fillings, and extractions. The most common type of pediatric dentist is an oral surgeon with special training in treating children’s and adults’ teeth. Consult a reputed dentistry service for your next dental appointment.
