Pediatric dentists, also known as pedodontists, not only love working with teeth but also love working with children and people with special needs. This, along with their additional training, makes them ideal choices for parents seeking regular dental care for their children. There are many reasons parents should consider selecting a pediatric dentist for their child's dental care.
A pediatric dentist has graduated from dental school, attended a specialized pediatric dentistry residency, and been board-certified in pediatric dentistry. A pediatric dental residency generally lasts two to three years. During the residency, pediatric dentists undergo training specific to working with children's small mouths and use specific, child-friendly technologies. They also can provide certain forms of anesthesia to children.
"A pediatric dental residency generally lasts two to three years."
A major part of a pediatric dentist's job involves providing education to both parents and their children about maintaining the health of their teeth and the structures of the mouth. It is very important to promote good oral hygiene early on in life. Studies show that poor dental health negatively affects a child's school performance. Pediatric dentists can teach children tips and tricks to help them succeed in taking care of their teeth, and can also help educate parents about childhood habits that may influence the growth and development of a child's teeth and mouth structures.
"Pediatric dentists can also help educate parents about childhood habits that may influence the growth and development of a child's teeth, such as using a pacifier, thumb-sucking, or nail-biting."
A pediatric dentist's office tends to look much different than that of a general dentist. Pediatric dental offices will often be bright and colorful or decorated with specific themes that aim to make dental visits fun, inviting, and less intimidating. Many pediatric dental offices offer prizes at the end of each visit as an incentive for children to stay engaged and optimistic. Pediatric dental offices may also have televisions in the waiting room or even in exam rooms.
"Many pediatric dental offices offer prizes at the end of the visit as an incentive for children to stay engaged and optimistic."
Pediatric dentists genuinely enjoy working with children, youth, and people with special needs. Pedodontists remain passionate about establishing good habits to avoid the development of tooth decay or gum disease, and they enjoy helping their patients with their changing needs as they grow older. Since they have undertaken two to three extra years of dental education to become pediatric specialists, their enthusiasm remains evident.
"Pedodontists remain passionate about establishing good habits to avoid the development of tooth decay or gum disease, and they enjoy helping their patients with their changing needs as they grow older."
"This extra training includes advanced education about diagnostic procedures and surgical training geared toward working with the small structures of a child's mouth."
When should a child start visiting a dentist?
According to a report published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should establish a dental home by the age of one. Some dental professionals recommend the first dental visit be by one year or six months after the first tooth becomes visible.
How often should a child see a pediatric dentist?
Children should see a dentist about as often as adults. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a visit for a routine check-up every six months. Visit frequency may be different depending on a child's specific needs.
Can a pediatric dentist give sedation to a child?
Yes. Pediatric dentists have additional training that makes them certified to help their patients tolerate treatments more easily using sedative medications. Pediatric dentists commonly use nitrous oxide sedation, but other methods are available.
Does a pediatric dentist treat adults?
Pediatric dentists primarily treat children and teens. However, they also have training to treat adults with special needs. If you have a family member with special needs who needs dental care, a pediatric dentist may be a great option.
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