The subject of kids’ dentistry is often ignored by parents who prefer to take their children to your regular general dentist rather than search for a pediatric dentist that the child needs. Parents undoubtedly believe that any baby teeth in the child’s mouth will fall off soon and therefore specialized attention is not needed. Don’t parents understand the need to provide their kids with the best attention from a specialist for their dental needs? Yes, they certainly do but assume that their regular dentist is perfectly capable of providing the same.
Dentistry for children is a different subject altogether and pediatric dentists receive additional education to provide professional dental care for children even with special needs. Pediatric dentists can be a child’s best friend when matters related to their oral health are concerned right from infancy to adolescence. They can help children get the protection they need against oral health issues that can potentially result in long-term problems along with lifelong complications.
When Should Parents Begin Searching for a Pediatric Dentist
The earlier children begin to receive oral healthcare the better it will be for them to manage any complications that may affect them. Children should begin receiving dental care right from the time they haven’t developed their milk teeth. Children must be taken to Dental Arts St. Beach no later than their first birthday or age 1 which is considered the best time for the child to have his or her first dental visit even by the ADA. Professional help of the pediatric dentist must be sought after for all needs of the child’s oral health
What Services Can You Pediatric Dentist Provide for Children?
The pediatric dentist in St. Beach, FL, is an expert in providing the following services needed by children:
- They can perform oral health exams for infants including conducting risk assessments for decay and cavities for the baby as well as the mother.
- Offer advice on preventive measures to stay away from problems like cavities and decay and suggest dental cleaning, fluoride treatment, advice on proper diet and nutrition, and education about oral health.
- Evaluate, diagnose, and treat orthodontic problems like misaligned teeth, an improper bite, and crooked teeth.
- Detecting oral health problems early that may potentially be linked to serious health issues like asthma, diabetes, hayfever, and congenital heart problems.
- Offer treatment for dental injuries including fractured or damaged teeth.
- Counseling on the use of the pacifier and thumbsucking.
- Repairing damaged or decayed teeth.
- Preventing, managing, and treating gingivitis and periodontal diseases.
The Benefits of a Child Receiving Attention from a Pediatric Dentist
It is a popular habit with most families to visit their family dentist for the care needed by the child. This is an error that parents shouldn’t be making because if they visit a pediatric dentist the child will receive special care that cannot be provided by General dentists. Certain conditions and issues are specific to children and can only be managed successfully by a pediatric dentist.
Taking children to a dentist is not the easiest task in the world because they too have dental anxieties and fears of any treatments they may need. Children are usually uncooperative during their appointments with the dentist and therefore need a specialist who can work with them patiently and the only professional available to achieve this goal is the pediatric dentist. These professionals use specialized techniques and tricks to make children feel comfortable and less concerned during any procedure. They also have equipment specially designed for children to effectively provide quality care for the child’s oral health.
Children must be taken to a pediatric dentist as soon as their first tooth appears. This is the best time for the pediatric dentist to detect any signs of oral health problems like tooth decay and cavities. If problems are detected the dentist can administer the treatment at the earliest to prevent it from aggravating to an advanced stage.
Caring for Children’s Teeth at Home
Oral health problems and infections do not exempt children and affect them like everyone else. Children, unfortunately, rely on their parents when caring for their teeth. They need help to develop proper oral hygiene habits that will remain with them throughout their lives. Children must be taught proper techniques of brushing and must be constantly reminded of the need also to floss at least once a day. The pediatric dentist can educate the child on certain oral health habits but the parent must assume the responsibility of inculcating the habit in the child to make sure he or she does not develop concerning oral or overall health issues.
