Pediatric Dentist

What is the meaning of pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry specializes in/takes care of the oral health of infant, children and adolescent. This dentistry also treats children with special needs, who are physically and mentally challenged. Pediatric dentistry involves additional study of 3 years (i.e. after 4 years of dental training).This branch of dentistry studies child growth, psychology and development. Such dentists take care of wide variety of dental problems of children e.g. cavity, tooth decay, malocclusion, emergency care, crooked teeth etc.

When should a child first visit the dentist?

According to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry the child should be brought to the dentist when he turns 1 year old .By that time the first teeth comes and the dentist can discuss ways of keeping oral hygiene. A dentist can guide the parents about diet, tooth eruption, finger habits, fluoride etc.

How many visits are recommended?

According to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry the child should be brought twice a year to the dental clinic .The visits may vary if the child has tooth decay, bad oral hygiene, and unusual teeth growth.

How important are baby teeth?

Baby teeth are not permanent but they are very important. They help the child to crew food, smile properly and speak clearly. Baby teeth hold the space for permanent teeth. If child looses teeth at an early age because of decay/ damage the nearby teeth can encroach that free space which can result in misplaced/crooked permanent teeth.