Pedodontics or paediatric dentistry as it is known in a lot of places is one of the most challenging aspects of dentistry as it sometimes involves taking care of patients who are below the age of reason and don’t necessarily always know what is best for them.
Pediatric dentists require an extra three years of dental training that prepare them in meeting the unique dental needs of infants, children and adolescent dental care. This also includes those with special health care needs.
One of the main components of pediatric training is child psychology. This manifests itself in special office designs, different communication style, and an emphasis on teaching preventative dental habits to children in an effort to make dental visits enjoyable.
For children, pedodontics place special importance in preventing tooth decay. Studies show that poor oral health care in children lead to decrease in school performance and poor social relationships. Therefore, pediatric dentists give advice on how to make teeth strong, the importance of developing healthy eating habits and other ways to prevent cavities from occurring.
Dental Care for Young Children: Summary of Best Practice Recommendations
When should parents begin to clean their baby’s teeth? “The sooner, the better!” The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry states that parents should begin dental cleaning at birth, by cleaning their child’s gums with a soft infant tooth brush and water. Unless it is advised by your child’s pediatric dentist, fluoridated toothpaste is not recommended until 2-3 years of age.
When should children first visit a dentist? "First visit by first birthday" According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should first visit the dentist when they receive their first tooth or by the child’s first birthday. Early dental care is important for dental prevention in the future. However, dental problems can begin early. A major dental concern for young children is Early Childhood Caries, also known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries.
How can I prevent tooth decay from a bottle or nursing? To prevent tooth decay in young children, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children be encouraged to begin drinking from a cup as they approach their first birthday. At nap times or at night, children should not fall asleep with a bottle. It is recommended that night time breast-feeding be avoided after the first primary (baby) teeth begins to erupt. Drinking juice or other sugary drinks from a bottle should always be avoided. When such drinks are offered, they should be served in a cup.
Remember that just because you can't see the teeth doesn't mean they aren't there. Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw.
Running a damp washcloth over your baby's gums following feedings can prevent buildup of damaging bacteria. Once your child has a few teeth showing, you can brush them with a soft child's toothbrush or rub them with gauze at the end of the day.
When all the primary (milk) teeth have come in (usually around age 2 1/2) your dentist may start applying topical fluoride during your child's visits.
If you are prone to tooth decay or gum disease, your child may be at higher risk as well. Therefore, sometimes even the most diligent brushing and flossing will not prevent a cavity. Be sure to call your dentist if your child complains of pain in his or her teeth. The pain could be a sign of a cavity that needs to be treated.
Your child needs the BEST, give him a specialist.