Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Pediatric Dentistry

Most children visit a pediatric dentist at some point. These visits are needed to ensure a child's teeth and jaw remain healthy. Parents and other individuals often have questions regarding pediatric dentistry. These are some of the most common questions asked about this profession.

What are the Differences Between a Pediatric and Adult Dentist?

A pediatric dentist attends dental school and completes the same training as other dentists. Once this part of his education is complete, a pediatric dentist will need two or three years of pediatric training. This specialty education allows a pediatric dentist to provide oral care and treatments for infants and children. These dentists typically only treat patients who have not yet completed adolescence.

Unlike adult dentists, these individuals are trained to work with young patients and recognize early problems in developing teeth. They can recognize oral disorders and diseases that may affect young children. Childhood is a period of rapid development, and it is important to recognize problems early to prevent long-term consequences.

When Should the Initial Visit be Scheduled?

In most situations, a child's first visit to a dentist should be scheduled once the first tooth appears. When the first tooth appears, it is time for the pediatric dentist to examine the child's jaw and gums as well as the tooth itself and its position. This will allow any issues to be diagnosed as soon as possible. If the child is a year old and the first tooth has not appeared, he should be taken to a pediatric dentist to determine if there are any problems with his oral development.

How is One Found?

There are a few ways to find a qualified pediatric dentist. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry offers a search tool capable of listing local dentists. One may also search by using a local phonebook. A child's pediatrician or family doctor may be able to recommend a qualified dentist.

Are Baby Teeth Even Important?

Regardless of the fact that they will eventually be replaced by adult teeth, baby teeth are very important to a child's health and development. These teeth allow a child to vocalize and speak properly. They are important for chewing and eating as children begin to eat semi-solid and solid foods. Baby teeth also help form the path that will be used by the adult teeth.

If problems with baby teeth are not treated, they can create unpleasant symptoms as well as have long-term effects. Diseased or damaged teeth can be very painful and disrupt normal eating and speech. This can lead to consequences like malnutrition, avoidance of certain foods and slow language development. If speaking and eating cause pain or are simply uncomfortable, a child may be reluctant to do these things. Improperly positioned baby teeth that are not corrected may lead to misaligned adult teeth.

How Often Do Children Need to See One?

It is a good idea for a child to have a scheduled check-up every six months. This makes early diagnosis and treatment possible. While visiting a pediatric dentist twice every year may be sufficient, a child's dentist may recommend a different schedule based on the patient's oral health.

Can Nursing Decay be Prevented?

When a child's teeth are frequently exposed to milk or juice for long periods of time, nursing decay can occur and cause damage to the teeth. There are a few things one can do to prevent nursing decay. Restrict the child's access to milk and juice between meals. Many parents nurse children to sleep or give them a bottle with milk at bedtime. This is when nursing decay often occurs. Instead, the child can be given a bottle of water. This lets the child have a bottle, and water will not cause damage to teeth. It is also important to properly care for the child's teeth through brushing and flossing. This keeps plaque from building up on the teeth.

What Keeps a Child's Teeth Healthy?

A child's teeth can be kept healthy by using a combination of a healthy diet, proper oral hygiene practices, professional dental care and protection during sporting events. A healthy, well-balanced diet will strengthen the teeth, while limiting sugar will help prevent damage. Keeping the teeth clean by brushing and flossing will reduce damaging plaque and bacteria. Not all damage to teeth occurs over time. A tooth may be damaged or chipped while a child is playing. This is especially common during activities like playing football. A soft mouth guard should always be worn during sports activities to help protect the teeth, lips and gums. Finally, a pediatric dentist can keep a child's teeth healthy by providing appropriate treatments.

Dental X-Rays: Are They Safe?

Many parents are concerned about exposing their children to dental x-rays. Due to the precautions taken during dental x-rays, leaving possible undiagnosed oral diseases and disorders untreated is considered much more dangerous than this procedure. Pediatric dentists are very careful to minimize a child's exposure to radiation during dental x-rays. With current safety precautions and technology, the level of exposure during this procedure is quite low. The x-rays are filtered and blocked by protective clothing, so that only the necessary area is exposed.

How Can Parents Help?

Parents can help ensure their child's oral health by completing a few simple tasks. A parent should do everything he can to prevent oral disease and damage. Brushing and flossing a child's teeth with child-safe products is an excellent way to prevent cavities and other problems. As mentioned above, providing protective mouth guards during sports is also a good idea.

Parents are also responsible for teaching their children to care for their teeth. Early education about proper diet and hygiene can create lifelong habits. Younger children need to be shown how to clean their teeth, while older children may simply need to be reminded to brush and floss.

Another way that parents can help is by being sure to take the child to a pediatric dentist as often as is necessary. These dentists are qualified professionals and can treat problems that cannot be properly dealt with at home. They can also provide helpful suggestions and tips for maintaining a child's oral health. More information about teaching proper dental hygiene to children and helping them maintain their teeth can be found here.