What Ages Do Pediatric Dentists Treat?

Pediatric dentistry is a subspecialty of dentistry which focuses on the oral health care of infants, children, and young adolescents. Pediatric dentists receive tailored training in child development, psychology, and behavior management, allowing them to provide high-quality dental care to young patients in a comfortable and supportive environment.

This article will discuss the ages pediatric dentists treat, including the importance of pediatric dentistry and the services offered.

The Ages Treated By Pediatric Dentists At All American Dental

Pediatric dentists provide dental care to infants, children, and adolescents.

Infants: Pediatric dentists may see infants as young as six months old or when their first teeth appear. During these early appointments, the dentist will examine your baby’s teeth for signs of tooth decay or other dental issues and advise you on how to take care of your baby’s teeth. This advice may include tips on bottle feeding, avoiding sugary drinks, and gently cleaning your baby’s teeth and gums. Pediatric dentists may also recommend fluoride supplements or dental sealants to protect your baby’s teeth from decay.

Pediatric dentists may also be called upon to treat infant dental issues such as “baby bottle tooth decay” or “nursing caries.” These conditions can develop when young children are exposed to sugary liquids for extended periods, such as falling asleep with a bottle of milk or juice. Pediatric dentists can assist in the prevention and treatment of these issues, as well as provide advice on how to avoid them in the future.

Children: Pediatric dentists typically treat children up to the age of 18. This can include regular dental exams and cleanings, cavity filling, and other procedures as needed. They may also educate children on proper oral hygiene and diet to help them maintain good dental health.

As children grow older, they may develop dental issues that are unique to their age and development. Some children, for example, may require orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth or jaws. Pediatric dentists can provide this care or refer children to orthodontists for more specialized care. They may also offer advice on other aspects of dental development, such as wisdom tooth removal or the use of sports mouthguards.

Adolescents: As children reach adolescence, they may develop dental issues that are related to their changing bodies and lifestyles. Pediatric dentists near you can treat these issues, such as wisdom tooth removal and orthodontic treatment, while also monitoring overall dental health. They may also provide education on issues that can harm adolescent dental health, such as tobacco use and poor nutrition.

Adolescents may also be more susceptible to dental problems due to their age and habits. They may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drinking alcohol or smoking, which can impact dental health. Pediatric dentists can educate adolescents on these issues and assist them in making healthy dental choices.

Importance of Pediatric Dentistry

The following are five reasons why seeing pediatric dentistry near you is important:

• • Early detection and prevention of dental problems

Pediatric dentists are trained to identify dental problems early and prevent them from worsening. Early detection and prevention can save children from painful dental procedures and help them maintain good oral health for the rest of their lives.

• • Tailored Care in Children

Pediatric dentists have specialized training in child development, psychology, and behavior management, allowing them to provide dental care tailored to the specific needs of children. They understand children’s fears and anxieties during dental visits and are prepared to manage their behavior and create a comfortable environment.

• • Encourages good oral health habits

Our dentist at 65203 provides dental care and educates children and parents about good oral health habits. This includes teaching children proper brushing and flossing techniques and promoting healthy eating habits to prevent tooth decay.

• • Specialized care for special needs children

Pediatric dentists are trained to work with children who have special needs such as developmental disabilities, autism, and other medical conditions. They can provide specialized care to meet these children’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the best oral health care possible.

• • Enhances overall health

Oral health is an essential part of overall health. Pain, infection, and other health issues can result from poor oral health. Pediatric dentistry encourages good oral health habits and ensures that children receive timely and appropriate dental care, which can benefit their overall health and well-being.