Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry revolving around the dental care of children. A pediatric dentist has taken specialized classes in his field and thus has additional training beyond that of most regular or general dentists. The pediatric dentist’s education allows him to determine the best treatment options for a child’s dental problems.
What Does a Pediatric Dentist Do?
A pediatric dentist provides many kinds of dental treatment for children, ranging from routine dental care – such as cleanings – to x-rays, examinations and working to determine if a child’s jaw and teeth are developing properly. For most pediatric dentists, there is a lot of emphasis on preventative dental care. This is because early intervention and proper dental care at home can decrease the likelihood that a child will develop dental problems, such as cavities or orthodontic problems, as he or she progresses into adolescence and then adulthood.
Your child’s pediatric dentist will likely spend a lot of time with your child, teaching how to properly care for the teeth and gums. This dental education at an early age can stay with the child for a lifetime, establishing regular, healthy dental habits such as flossing and proper tooth brushing. The pediatric dentist may also choose to perform procedures such as tooth sealants, which are applied to permanent molars to prevent cavities.