Need of Pediatric Dentistry:
Pediatric dentistry is a one of the most special branches of dentistry which primarily focusses on the oral health of infants, children, and young adults. One of the biggest misconceptions around milk teeth are the fact that they do not need to be cared for as they are anyways going to fall off at a certain age. But this is an absolute false statement. Milk teeth need the same amount of care as adult teeth. Some of the reasons why it is necessary to look after oral health right from the start is that it helps with chewing, speaking and other such primary activities. Only if the milk teeth are healthy, will they start to fall out at the right age, else they may fall out before which can tend to a shift in the other teeth which inturn causes a misplacement of adult teeth. Untreated cavities and tooth decay in baby teeth can give rise to incorrect eruption of the adult teeth as well. Also setting the foundation for lifelong oral health starts from childhood.
Some of its numerous benefits of pediatric dentistry are listed below:
- Preventive Care: Pediatric dentists prioritise preventive measures, such as regular check-ups and cleanings, to avert dental issues.
- Development Monitoring: They track the growth and development of teeth, identifying potential problems early.
- Cavity Management: Specialized techniques are employed to treat and prevent cavities, which are common in children.
- Behavior Management: Pediatric dentists are trained to ease children's anxiety, ensuring a positive dental experience.
- Special Needs Care: Pediatric dentists are equipped to address the dental needs of children with special healthcare requirements.
- Long-term Health: Establishing good dental habits in childhood can lead to better oral health and overall wellness in adulthood.
Let us dwell deep into the most commonly seen pediatric dental disorders:
- Dental Caries: The most prevalent chronic disease in children, often resulting from poor oral hygiene and high sugar intake, leading to cavities.
- Early Childhood Cavities: Severe form of dental caries in young children, often affecting primary teeth due to prolonged bottle feeding with sugar-containing liquids.
- Malocclusion: Misalignment of teeth and jaws that can lead to bite issues; common types include crowding, overbite, and underbite.
- Gingivitis: Gum swelling which is usually a result of plaque buildup, characterized by red, gums that may bleed during brushing.
- Dental Trauma: Injuries to teeth and supporting structures, often resulting from falls or accidents in active play, leading to fractures, displacements, or complete avulsion.
- Pulpitis: Inflammation of the dental pulp often resulting from untreated caries, leading to toothache and potential abscess formation.
- Eruption Disorders: Delayed or irregular eruption of teeth, which can affect overall dental alignment and health.
It can be tough on parents to help toddlers understand the importance of oral health, but it is also necessary for their long term benefit. However, pediatric dentists are highly trained and available for all your children when it comes to tackling their oral health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should you take your child for first dental visit?
It is usually recommended that a child has their first dental visit with one of the Best Pediatric Dentist in Vijayawada usually by the time they turn one year old. Sometimes a child may get their first tooth well before their first birthday, which then warrants the visit to be preponed.
How to prevent tooth decays in children?
It can be tough when it comes to kids, but some of the key factors that help is reducing sugar intake or sugar drinks, enforcing hygienic habits and also most importantly regular dental check ups help. It is also necessary to make children brush twice a day.
How to protect teeth while playing?
It is essential to make sure child is wearing the right protective mouth guard and other devices which can reduce or nullify the impact of injury while playing sports. Dental trauma while playing can be extremely painful.
Is it important to protect baby teeth?
Yes, they play an essential role in permanent teeth development and also can be lost earlier than usual due to decay. Visit Dental Clinic in Vijayawada to know more on this.
Which toothpaste and toothbrush should be used on infants?
As per best children dentist in Vijayawada, a soft bristled brush with a very small head which can help navigate the tiny gums of your child. Also, a fluoride toothpaste is the best bet to be used on children. They need to brush twice a day to prevent any build-up of cavities.
Is thumb sucking harmful?
Yes, prolonged thumb sucking can cause teeth to erupt out in a different way or in a protruded way leading to further intervention and correction. You can get help from pediatric dental specialists on how to help your child get rid of thumb sucking.
Are x-rays safe for children?
Yes, dental x-rays use minimal radiation and are hence very safe for children as they help in pin pointed diagnosis and treatments.
Can crowns be done for kids?
Yes, at Giggles Dental Care, steel, ceramic and gold crowns are available for kids to help protect their tooth.
What to do if child does not want to brush teeth?
Help them by using different flavoured tooth pastes and colorful tooth brushes. Helping them set a routine is very important along with mirroring the idea of brushing.
Is teeth whitening recommended for children?
No, generally teeth whitening is not recommended for children and alternate methods to help brighten your children's teeth can be known with the help of pediatric dentist.