What is the difference between a Pediatric Dentist and a General Dentist?
Pediatric dentists complete and intensive 2-3 year postodoctoral program in the specialty care of pediatric patients. This includes:
- Complex diagnostic and surgical procedures
- Restorative dentistry
- Child psychology and developmnent
- Care for patients with special needs
- Child-related pharmacolgy
- Conscious sedation and general anesthesia
- Management of oral/facial trauma
When should I start bringing my child to the dentist? .
Your pediatrician and The American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that you establish a "Dental Home" for your child by their 1st birthday or 6 months after the eruption of their first tooth.
Is it still important to take care of my child's baby teeth?
Absolutely! Baby teeth help children with their normal function and speech development. Also, starting early with regular brushing and flossing forms lifelong habits necessary for excellent oral health. Leaving decay/cavities untreated in baby teeth may lead to infections that may become very serous.
What can I do to prevent my child from getting cavities?
Prevention is key to a lifetimes or oral health and it begins with daily brushing and flossing of your child's teeth along with routine examinations and cleanings. Another important step in prevention is altering dietary patterns to limit a child's exposure to sugar. Our pediatric dentists will thoroughly review all prevention strategies with you and create an individualized preventive plan for your child.
My children have a thumb sucking habit. Will that affect their teeth?
Most children are ready to extinguish an oral habit around the age of 3. Habits that persist may alter your child's bite, jaw form and the position of their teeth. A critical factor in determining whether a habit may affect your child's teeth is how frequent and intense the habit is. Our doctors will review tips and strategies to help extinguish difficult oral habits and minimize any risk to your child's teeth.
Do you still have questions about your child's pediatric dental care? We are more than happy to answer your questions - call us today, Palm Valley Pediatric Dentistry, Goodyear, Surprise, Avondale!
