The Unique Dental Needs of Children

Posted by: Jason Hui, DDS, on November 25, 2013

Recently updated on March 3rd, 2014 at 02:18 pm

When it comes to health care, children have unique needs that may require specialized attention. This is certainly true when it comes to dentistry.

The extensive knowledge that a pediatric dentist has about the specific concerns of children’s oral health can be tremendously valuable. A specialist in this area can keep an eye out for signs of problematic developments with the permanent teeth or make recommendations for treatments for primary teeth to help extend their lifespan so that they are not lost prematurely.

Although adults can get cavities, too, children are highly susceptible to this issue. A pediatric dentist can recommend preventive treatment, such as sealants, and review appropriate oral hygiene techniques with you and your child. And, yes, even baby teeth need to be brushed and flossed daily to protect them from decay. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the permanent tooth may erupt too soon, having a detrimental effect on the smile.

A children’s dentist will also be especially familiar with the timeline for eruption of the primary and permanent teeth and will be able to identify a potential problem that warrants an intervention.

Because children are developing, their diets are as important to that dental development as their growth elsewhere in the body. Your pediatric dentist can make recommendations on foods that will help to support good dental health and those that should be restricted or eliminated.

A pediatric dentist is also likely to have more expertise in how to interact with children and put them at ease in the dentist’s chair. Treatments like cleanings that may appear to be innocuous to an adult can cause significant anxiety in children, and a pediatric dentist’s approach can make all the difference in getting a child to cooperate with treatment.

Children have certain needs when it comes to oral health, and pediatric dentists are well-qualified to care for these unique patients. Call our team at Paragon Dentistry at 469-251-2888 to schedule your child’s appointment today.