The health needs of growing children are markedly different from adults. Such is also the case when it comes to the oral health of children. Right from spouting of the baby teeth to losing some years later and other emergencies in between; a pediatric dentist takes care of it all.
Understanding Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentistry is about taking care of oral health of kids of all age groups – from the time of their birth to their teen years. Pediatric dentists are qualified and trained medical professionals with experience in handling unique oral care needs of children.
Not all dentists choose to specialize in pediatric dentistry as there are various practice options available for them these days. Some dentists may have the training and experience in providing oral care to both kids and adults.
Pediatric Dentistry Services
The right oral care from a young age can lead to strong teeth and gums in children. Kids today consume a lot of food products containing high amounts of sugar; requiring even greater care of their teeth. The habit of thumb sucking in children can lead to misaligned teeth. Even excessive use of pacifiers can affect optimal growth of teeth. A pediatric dentist may not only offer treatment but also counseling for such less-than-ideal practices.
Children can have teeth requiring braces or use of a mouth guard. A pediatric dentist can begin treatment to straighten your child’s teeth at the right time. Misshapen teeth can not only cause problems with eating and speaking, but it can also adversely affect a child’s confidence. You can work with a pediatric dentist to sort out dental issues in your child in a timely manner.
Children can also have mouth ulcers and be at risk of developing periodontal diseases. Regular checkups with a pediatric dentist can help counter these problems at the start. Most pediatric dentists also offer emergency services as kids are very prone to oral injuries. In case your child requires dental implants, your pediatric dentist can help with the right selection and treatment for the same. There are several options available now to treat broken or knocked-out teeth. Dentistry is an ever-evolving medical field. New treatment techniques and implants are developed at a rapid pace to cater to people of all age groups and for different problems.
Kids who go for regular dental checkups are more likely to develop good oral care habits and even retain them for life. A pediatric dentist can even guide the parents to tackle emergency situations efficiently until they can reach the clinic. For example, parents can use a cold compress on their child’s mouth in case of swelling due to a broken tooth. Another example can be to avoid using aspirin over the broken tooth area as it can damage the gums.
Kids require specialized care for all aspects of their growth. A pediatric dentist forms an essential part of the medical team for your growing child.
McLean Healthy Smiles, one of the leading pediatric ( mcleanhealthysmiles.com/pediatric-dental-emergencies ) and family dental clinics in McLean providing dental care treatments like Invisalign, dental exams and cleanings, implants, oral cancer screening, teeth whitening, scaling and root planing, periodontal treatments, emergency dental care, mouthguards, and more. To know more, visit mcleanhealthysmiles.com/about-us.