Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field devoted to ensuring the oral health and well-being of children throughout their developmental years, from infancy to adolescence. Pediatric dentists are also trained in providing oral care for children with complex medical conditions and special needs. Dentists who specialize in pediatric dentistry enter pediatric residency. This additional extensive training spans two to three years following the completion of their general dentistry degree (DMD/DDS).
At the end of the additional years of training, pediatric dentists can then challenge the examinations administered by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. After completion of this series of testing over another additional year, a pediatric dentist earns the right to call themself a board-certified pediatric dentist (A Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry).
Pediatric dentists fulfill various important functions related to a child's overall oral development, health, and hygiene. They particularly focus on maintaining and caring for deciduous (baby) teeth, which are crucial for proper chewing habits, speech production, and guiding permanent teeth.
Pediatric dentists are experts in child-specific dental needs
Children experience different dental issues than adults. Just as a pediatrician knows how to address the specific medical needs of children, a pediatric dentist knows how to address the specific dental needs of children.
Pediatric dentists provide child-specific education and focus on prevention. They play a crucial role in helping parents and children establish good oral care habits to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Regular check-ups, dental cleanings, dental sealants and topical fluoride treatments are used to safeguard the teeth of young patients. Furthermore, they offer valuable guidance on habits such as thumb-sucking and pacifier use
Pediatric dentists understand the anatomy of baby teeth. The anatomy of a primary (“baby”) tooth is very different from that of a permanent tooth. Pediatric dentists have much more experience with the specific needs of a baby tooth. They are also specially trained to perform procedures that are specific to primary teeth or to immature permanent teeth.
Pediatric dentists are well verse in dental issues seen primarily in children. For example, natal teeth or neonatal teeth (i.e., teeth present at birth or within the first month of life), tongue and lip ties, severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) an especially aggressive presentation of tooth decay that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to recognize and treat these types of issues.
Pediatric dentists are trained to consider how their treatment will affect the growth and development of the patient. They also consider the appropriate timing of treatment. Examples of things a pediatric dentist would consider with regard to growth/development are the necessity of space maintenance, the plan for missing or extra teeth, early intervention for bite issues and inadequate jaw growth. Pediatric dentists work closely with orthodontists to help achieve ideal results for your child.
Pediatric dentists understand child behavior.
Child psychology plays a vital role in pediatric dentistry. Pediatric dentists are specially trained in child psychology and behavior guidance techniques to help ease the fears of, and create a positive experience for, children with a wide range of temperaments and developmental levels. Pediatric dentists provide appropriate treatments with a child-centered approach. There is a focus on cultivating a warm, welcoming, and enjoyable atmosphere for children during their dental visits.
Pediatric dentists employ child-friendly language and strategies to avoid using intimidating words like "drill," "needle," or "shots." Recognizing the significance of early positive experiences, pediatric dentists strive to establish a foundation of trust and comfort as dental anxieties developed during childhood often persist into adulthood. By fostering positive dental experiences, pediatric dentists aim to help children establish their"dental home" at an early age.
Pediatric dental offices offer a kid-friendly environment.
Pediatric dentists only treat children, which means their offices are to be kid-friendly. At Campfire Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our office has been designed specifically to appeal to children while maintaining a professional environment that parents can trust for their child's healthcare.
"Pediatric dentist" is a protected term. Technically, only actual pediatric dentists can label themselves as such, but sometimes the wording used in advertisements can be confusing i.e. "kid's dentist." Asking the following questions will help you determine whether your dentist is a pediatric dentist:
1. Is the dentist a general dentist? Ask directly whether the dentist is a pediatric dentist or a general dentist that has limited their scope of practice to kids only.
2. Is the dentist a board-certified pediatric dentist? Only pediatric dentists may be certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). Certification indicates that the dentist has met the rigorous standards and requirements set by the board and demonstrates their commitment to providing specialized care for children.
3. Where did the dentist do their pediatric training? A pediatric dentist must complete two years of specialty training in a residency program after graduating from dental school.
It's always a good idea to directly inquire with the dental office about their specialization in pediatric dentistry and ask any specific questions you may have regarding their experience and approach to treating children.
You can search for a pediatric dentist near you using the website of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and for a board-certified pediatric dentist near you using the website of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child, we are here to assist you. Contact our team to schedule anappointment and ensure your child receives the specialized dental care they deserve.
Our commitment to creating a positive and nurturing environment for children sets the foundation for a lifetime of excellent oral health. Trust in our pediatric dental expertise to support your child's smile and overall well-being.
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00am to 5:00pm
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