The majority of parents prefer taking their children to a pediatric dentist instead of the standard dentist. Undoubtedly, doing this benefits your children. They are specially trained to deal with children. So, if you think they perform the same function as regular dentists, you are mistaken. Think about it. Since these professionals deal with small children, they use different dental equipment to carry out their work. Also, their office environment is child-friendly. Typically, a pediatric dentist understands children better. Besides, they are in an excellent position to treat any dental condition in children.
What is the best age of taking my child to a pediatric dentist?
Taking your child to see a pediatric dentist is very important. This is the only way these professionals can detect and treat dental conditions at the early stages. They can deal with children of even six months. However, if your child does not have any visible dental disease, take them for a checkup when they reach six years. When you do this, you can always get the dentist’s best oral hygiene tips to incorporate. In turn, you’ll be able to avoid the most common dental issues in children.
What are the professional qualifications of pediatric dentists?
Pediatric dentists are different from regular dentists. They undergo a professional dentistry course that specializes in treating child dental issues. The training usually takes a maximum of four years. So, a pediatric dentist is different from a standard dentist. They may not know to deal with specific issues in adults.
The functions of a pediatric dentist
Some of the things that a pediatric dentist does include:
Performing dental evaluation
All pediatric dentists can conduct a dental examination on children as young as six months. They can conduct x-rays and perform a physical exam on children. As a result, they identify any upcoming dental cavities, among other dental conditions. During dental examinations, a pediatric dentist can identify severe oral diseases like oral cancer. So, it is always good to take your child to a pediatric dentist when they are young.
Issuing fluoride supplements and sealants
The professionals have the right to prescribe fluoride treatments and sealants on children. If they notice that your child’s teeth are weak, they are likely to provide fluoride supplements. Also, they prescribe sealants whenever they want to safeguard your child’s teeth from any dental conditions. Not to mention, a pediatric dentist offers the best advice when it comes to taking care of your child’s teeth. Often, both parents and children do not know how to clean and take care of milk teeth. You can always count on your pediatric dentist to give you the best advice.
Professional counseling
Aside from treating dental health conditions, they offer to counsel to children in some cases. For instance, if you can’t get your child to stop sucking their thumb or using their pacifier, pediatric dentists can help. They know best how to counsel your child so that they may stop practicing bad oral habits. We all know the adverse consequences of excessive pacifier and thumb use. These habits can result in serious orthodontic problems.
Treating and managing dental conditions
Pediatric dentists help you manage any oral condition that your child may have. Whether a gum disease or an orthodontic problem. Once they conduct their dental examination, they will detect and treat an oral condition immediately. In case your child is too young to undergo treatment, they will help you manage the dental disease until your child reaches the right age of undergoing treatment.
How old are pediatric dentists’ patients?
Pediatric dentists are highly qualified to deal with children of 0 years of age to 18. The reason for this wide range is because most children start treatment from an early age. By the time treatment is over, they are in their late teenage years. Besides, changing dentists for your children is not such a good idea. So, start taking your child to the pediatric dentist from age six.
Additionally, take back to school dental checkups very seriously. Remember, oral health affects overall health. So, if your child has a dental, they may not perform well in school. As long as your child is not past 18, you can always take them to see a pediatric dentist.
The advantages of a pediatric dentist
Often, you can always find these professionals in health institutions, schools, and dental facilities. They not only deal with dental conditions in children but also conduct dental research. This way, they can advise you on the best ways to take care of your children.
In conclusion
Pediatric dentists are essential people in society. They help in boosting a child’s overall health. They take part in conducting dental evaluations and prescribing oral treatment. So, if you have a child, ensure you take them for a checkup. This way, your pediatric dentist can diagnose and treat any dental condition before it gets worse. Not to mention, taking your child to a pediatric dentist is much better. I mean, your child is less likely to throw tantrums due to the child-friendly environment and staff.