Pediatric dentistry or children’s dentistry as it is also referred to, specialises in the care of children’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health from infancy through the teenage years. It includes a range of practices from preventative care to treating complex dental issues. Here are some common pediatric dental issues and the treatments typically employed:
Common Dental Issues Experienced in Children
Tooth Decay (Caries):
This is perhaps the most common dental problem in children. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
Prevention/Treatment: Regular brushing, flossing, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. When decay occurs, treatments may include fillings or crowns.
Early Childhood Caries (Baby Bottle Tooth Decay):
Occurs in infants and toddlers who are frequently exposed to sugary liquids. It primarily affects the upper front teeth but can damage other teeth as well.
Prevention/Treatment: Avoid prolonged exposure to sugary drinks, regular oral cleaning even before teeth erupt, and use cups instead of bottles as the child approaches one year.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis):
This involves inflammation of the gum tissue which can progress to more serious infections affecting the bone (periodontitis).
Prevention/Treatment: Good oral hygiene practices, professional cleanings, and, if necessary, more intensive treatments like deep cleaning (scaling and root planing).
Dental Emergencies:
These can include knocked-out teeth, fractured teeth, or other injuries to the mouth.
Treatment: Immediate dental consultation. For a knocked-out permanent tooth, try placing it back in the socket or in milk and visit a dentist as soon as possible.
Malocclusion (Misaligned Teeth and Jaws):
Misaligned teeth can be due to thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond a certain age or genetic factors.
Prevention/Treatment: Early assessment and intervention by a dentist. Orthodontic treatments like braces might be recommended as children grow older.
Sensitive Teeth:
Children may complain of discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Prevention/Treatment: Use of toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, fluoride treatments, and addressing any underlying causes such as cavities or worn tooth enamel.
Preventative Care
Preventative dental care for your child can go a long way to avoid serious and costly dental issues down the line. It involves education about diet and proper oral hygiene, routine dental cleanings, fluoride applications, and the use of dental sealants to protect teeth.
Sedation Dentistry for Children
For extensive dental work or for children who are extremely anxious about dental procedures, various forms of sedation may be used to make the dental experience more comfortable.
Your Pediatric Dentist in Perth
At First Impressions Dental our pediatric dentists provide dental treatments but also educate parents and caregivers on the best practices for children’s dental care, emphasizing the importance of establishing good dental habits early on. Scheduling regular dental check-ups from a young age helps children grow up with healthy teeth and a positive attitude towards dental health.