Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that deals with the oral health care of children from birth through adolescence. Pediatric dentistry, also known as Pedodontics, is different from general dentistry. Pediatric dentists are experienced in providing care and treating a variety of oral health diseases specifically for children. Additionally, pediatric dentists have the training and experience to provide special care to children with special needs.
Tooth decay and other dental problems are common in children. If oral hygiene is not properly taken care of, treatment may be needed. Pediatric dentists teach children the proper techniques for brushing their teeth and taking care of them. In order to become a pediatric dentist, a person must complete 2-3 years of additional training which is why a pediatric dentist is the best choice to fulfill your child’s oral health needs.
Pediatric dentists teach children the techniques for brushing their teeth and for taking care of them. A pediatric dentist is the best choice to fulfill the child’s oral needs and get information about pediatric dentistry.
In order to become a practicing pediatric dentist, a person must complete a minimum of two additional years, and in many cases three years of training.
Pediatric Dental Techniques
When treatment is necessary, pediatric dentists use behavior management techniques to help children through the treatment process. Having the patience to help children feel calm and comfortable during their visit is essential, especially when they may be in pain.
A discussion with the parents/guardians of the child is an important part of the initial visit. Understanding the child’s medical and dental history as well as discussing any potential fears of treatment will help make the process as smooth as possible for your child. The tell-show-do technique can be used to help a child understand what will happen, as well as leading the child to develop a positive attitude towards oral health and their dental visits.
The dentist should have a detailed meeting with the parents to discuss the child’s behavior, fear and dental health. He should inform the parents of the phases involved in pediatric dental procedure. He should ask them to make the child’s mind comfortable about the procedure and ready him or her.
Dentists and patients should have a strong relationship. Pediatric dentists should effectively and efficiently perform the treatment of the patients. They should have a positive attitude. Communicating with the child who is cooperative or uncooperative will result in successful completion of dental procedures.
Communication will also lead the child to develop a positive attitude towards dentistry. Adopting the tell-show-do technique with the child and showing him what to do will make it easy for the child to understand. The dentist should decide whether the parents should be present during the dental procedure or not.
The dentists should also practice non-verbal communication if needed during the procedure. It may be necessary if he cannot talk and guide the patient by facial expressions.
It is also important to distract the child to decrease the pain intensity of the child; for example, the child can be given a mirror to hold or sunglasses to wear to avoid the light exposure.
The dentist should be fully aware of the child’s history and prescribe suitable pediatric dentistry procedures for him.
Why is Pediatric Dentistry Important?
Oral hygiene is vital to a person’s overall health. When oral health is neglected it can lead to tooth decay or other oral diseases, and in addition can have an impact on overall health. Developing good oral hygiene habits at an early age will help develop strong teeth and healthy gums as a child grows. This is why the American Dental Association recommends a child have their first dental visit when their first tooth appears, or at the latest by their 1st birthday.