Pediatric dentists are also known as children's dentists. These dentists receive the same training as general dentists, but they also perform extra training in the field of pediatric dentistry. These dentists are uniquely capable of providing excellent dental care for minors. If you're the parent of a child under the age of 18, consider taking your child to a pediatric dentist. Here are four things that children's dentists do.
1. Infant Oral Care
Kids should see the dentist for the first time as soon as their first baby tooth emerges. At this stage in their lives, kids don't need a lot of dental care. However, it's a good time to get kids acclimated to regular dental appointments. During this appointment, a pediatric dentist will ensure your child's teeth are growing properly. They can also clean your child's teeth using a gentle toothbrush and provide tooth care education to parents.
2. Children's Dental Exams
As kids develop, their full set of baby teeth will grow in. At this stage, kids should take advantage of biannual dental exams. These exams are similar to the ones performed on adults. A dentist will clean your child's teeth using a tooth polishing device and an abrasive paste. They will also floss your child's teeth and remove tartar buildup. Regular dental exams with a pediatric dentist can help children feel comfortable with dental care, which will set them up for a lifetime of good oral hygiene.
3. Cavity Fillings
Preventative care seeks to keep children's teeth healthy. Unfortunately, some kids will still develop cavities. Although baby teeth are only temporary, they still require treatment. If your child develops a cavity, a pediatric dentist can remove the decay using a drill before filling the tooth with amalgam or composite resin. Many children are afraid of having cavities filled, but a pediatric dentist can make the procedure as quick and painless as possible. Prompt cavity treatment will keep your child comfortable and toothache-free.
4. Dental Sealants
Kids should be taught the importance of brushing and flossing their teeth, but children aren't always as diligent as they should be. When you consider that many beloved childhood foods are high in sugar, you can see why many kids develop cavities. Fortunately, dental sealants can be useful for cavity prevention. Pediatric dentists can seal your child's molars with a clear substance that hardens to form a protective film. Dental sealants can last for many years, reducing the number of cavities that your child experiences.
To learn more, contact a resource like Northshore Pediatric Dentistry
