Facts About Pediatric Dentistry to Know About

Most parents know the importance of visiting a dentist for an assessment. Unfortunately, only a percentage of them actively seek pediatric dental emergency services, especially for their children. It is easy for your child’s dental health to take the back seat. But, ignoring their dental health can have dire consequences on their dental development.

That is why the American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommend visiting the pediatric dentist every six months.

Before you seek out dentistry for children’s services, here are a few facts to know about.

1. Pediatric Dentists Are Specialized to Deal with Kids

While it is tempting to take your child your child to a family doctor, it is not advisable. Family dentists are trained to diagnose and treat dental problems across different age groups. However, when it comes to complicated dental situations, you need a pediatric dentist.

Pediatric dentists go through post-graduate training for two or more years. They are trained on the different dental problems affecting children from infancy to young adulthood. They also gain information on the developmental milestones and psychological needs of children. This means they can perform any dental procedure and still maintain to keep the children calm.

2. Children are Prone to Cavities

It is reported that at least 42 percent of the children between ages 2 and 11 have cavities. Cavities develop because of various reasons, but poor hygiene is the primary one. Children do not know how to brush effectively, meaning they leave some teeth untouched. This will lead to plaque forming on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that carries bacteria. The more the plaque buildup, the higher the chance of developing cavities.

Also, children love to eat sweets and other sugary foods. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar. They also break down food, producing an acid solution. This solution attacks the enamel, making it prone to decay.

3. Primary Teeth Are Important

Did you know primary teeth form while the baby is in the womb? They, however, come out at six or seven months. These teeth are important to your child’s dental health. They shape the face and muscles and also hold the space the permanent ones. The primary teeth will guide the rest on how to come out.

However, if the child suffers from decay and prematurely loses the primary teeth, it creates a problem. The permanent teeth may erupt crooked or in improper alignment. It is, therefore, important to visit the dentist early for assistance.

If the teeth are lost, the dentist can recommend a space maintainer to hold the space and keep the teeth from becoming crooked. Remember, if the teeth are misaligned, your child will need orthodontic treatment later.

4. Children Should Visit the Dentists Before They Turn One

It is recommended to visit our pediatric dentists in Jackson, MI, immediately after the first tooth comes out or right before their first birthday. It is easy for the pediatric dentist to notice abnormal jaw development early before the primary teeth fill the mouth.

This first visit lasts about 30 minutes. The dentist will examine the gums for any abnormalities. Next, he will clean the gums with a soft, wet cloth. It is important to ensure your child is well-rested, dry, and fed to avoid any problems during this time.

5. Pediatric Dentistry Focuses on Prevention

Although the dentist may prescribe a treatment, most pediatric treatments are geared to prevent dental problems. Some of the services offered include:

• Dental cleaning and examination. The dentist will do a comprehensive dental assessment and professional cleaning every six months.
• Fluoride treatment. This is recommended for all people but is ideal for those at risk of decay. The dentist uses fluoride varnish on children above six years. This mineral strengthens the enamel and prevents decay.
• Dental sealants. These are plastic coatings applied on the teeth’s surface to protect them against bacterial attack.
• Education. We share information on teething, nutrition, and developmental milestones.
• Emergency dentistry. We also have children’s emergency dentist that can handle all the accident that occurs.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Summit Woods Family Dental Care for more information on pediatric dentistry services and their benefits.