Imbibing good oral habits in children is essential for optimal oral health that may progress even in adulthood. These habits offer a strong foundation for permanent dentition.
The dentist in Fairfield, ME, and their expert team offer pediatric services to children in a relaxing and friendly atmosphere to help alleviate dental anxiety and fear.
| 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. |
Importance of pediatric dentistry
Pediatric dentistry focuses on primary oral care among children since they are at an increased risk of developing dental problems 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.
Pediatric dentistry is important since caring for baby teeth paves the way for strong and healthy permanent teeth. Pediatric dentistry prioritizes regular education for parents and children to help prevent dental problems. 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.
Common treatments offered in pediatric dentistry
Depending on your child’s age and oral health needs, pediatric dentists offer the following procedures:
- Oral examinations 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 are used to remove any debris or plaque from the tooth surface gently. 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.
- Fillings/restorations: Dentists can effectively restore the child’s tooth with either traditional metal or tooth-colored fillings. This may also involve pulp therapy for extensive tooth decay and trauma
Pediatric dentists are well-trained to handle young children to ease their anxiety. They also help create a calm and relaxing environment to ensure children develop a healthy, and positive relationship with the dentist for enhancing their oral health and well-being.
