What Is the Importance of Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry has evolved over the years to make it more appealing to the dental needs of children. The dentist now accesses equipment and tools that are specifically meant for the small mouths of kids. This has greatly contributed to making dental visits more pleasant and comfortable for children. It is also important to note that besides being trained on the dental needs of children, children’s dentist in Rancho Cucamonga also has training in child psychology and behavior, making it easier for them to handle any aspects of oral care that involve your child.
It can never be too early to have your child visit the dentist. Children sprout their first tooth at around the age of 6 months and by then, you need to have identified a dentist to look after their teeth. Here are some benefits that can realize from pediatric dentists;
Risk Assessment
As part of the routine, oral health exams are performed during dental visits. The dentist runs a physical examination of every part of the mouth to check for signs of cavities or any other dental problems. X-rays may also be performed to rule out problems any serious problems with the gums and teeth that cannot be seen.
Based on the results obtained from oral exams, it can also be established if a child is at high risk of certain conditions. Having knowledge of an existing risk helps you put measures in place to prevent the risk.
Preventative measures
Once it has been established that your child faces a certain dental risk, you will need to put some preventive measures in place. Your dentist can either prescribe a suitable preventive treatment or you will be advised on at-home-preventive habits you can establish.
Some treatments that will help how to prevent cavities from a child’s mouth include the application of dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and routine dental cleanings. For other problems such as a premature loss of a tooth, the dentist may advise that your child gets space retainers to ensure the space left behind by a missing tooth stays intact until it’s time for the permanent tooth to set in. Your child may also be given mouthguards if they engage in any activities that put them at risk of tooth loss
Dental Education
Your visit to a kid’s dentist will often include educating you on the steps that can help you care for your child’s teeth back at home. As a parent, it is important that you play an active role in ensuring children keep their teeth clean and healthy. You will be advised on how to help them clean their teeth as well as what to feed them to ensure they have strong teeth.
Parent education is important because it is much easier to care for a child’s teeth when you know what to do and why you are doing it. It enables you to make informed choices such as avoiding prolonged use of the bottle and pacifier or discouraging habits like thumb-sucking.
Encourages good dental habits
Good oral health is vital for all, especially the little ones. This is because laying a healthy foundation for them ensures they carry good dental habits into their adult. As a result, they get to enjoy a quality life with little to no dental complications. The dental needs of children slightly vary from that of adults, and that is why there is a dedicated field for them. Pediatric dentists are trained and skilled to handle kids right from the time their first tooth erupts up to their late teenage years.
Introducing dentistry to children at an early age also helps them familiarize themselves with dental procedures and thus minimizes dental anxiety. As they grow up, they realize that it is a routine and essential procedure to go for dental visits, which is intended for their well-being.
Are you in need of a dentist near you to look after your child’s dental health? Talent Dental has the necessary skills and technology to help your child from infancy to teenage years and even into adulthood. Book an appointment today or give us a call to learn more.