Pediatric Dentistry

Why A Pediatric Dentist?

Has your child ever begged you not to leave the dentist? Impossible you say? Try our office. We have a special way with kids. Our pediatric specialists and staff love children and are specially trained to make them feel comfortable. We teach children how to take care of their teeth and just as important, we show them that going to the dentist can also be fun.

What Is A Pediatric Dentist (Pedodontist)?

In the same way that pediatricians are trained to meet a child’s medical needs, our pediatric dental specialists are uniquely qualified to protect your child’s oral health using the most advanced techniques, and all in our delightfully friendly open treatment area. Pediatric dentists have an additional two to three years of training at university pediatric facilities in addition to four years of dental school and four years of college study. Some pediatric dentists (including all of ours) practice general dentistry before specializing, giving them a unique perspective. They learn how to deal with the behavioral aspects of children, how to make them feel comfortable, and to make the experience pleasant. They also are trained and qualified to treat special needs patients.

What Dental Problems Could My Child Have?

Some dental problems begin very early in life. One concern is early childhood tooth decay, a serious condition caused by a child staying on the bottle (or breast) too long. Another problem is gum disease. About 40 percent of children two to three years old have at least mild inflammation of gum tissues. Oral habits (such as digit sucking) should also be checked. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chances of preventing problems. Strong, healthy teeth help your child chew food easily, speak clearly, and feel good about his or her appearance.

Why Are Baby Teeth So Important?

Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth are important because they aid in proper chewing, eating, and speech development, and add to an attractive appearance. A child who can chew, speak clearly, and smile with confidence is typically a happier child. Primary teeth also help aid in the development of jaw bones, muscles, and save space for the permanent teeth, as well as guiding them into place. If a baby tooth is lost too soon, permanent teeth might grow in crooked. Also, if a baby tooth is decayed, it can cause pain, abscesses, infections, and those issues can spread to the permanent teeth. Your child’s general health can be affected if diseased baby teeth aren’t treated. Keep in mind, some primary molars do not fall out until age 10-12, so they need to be able to last for a while.