Oral health is vital to overall well-being, and it is never too early to start practicing good oral hygiene. Pediatric dentistry deals exclusively in the dental care of children from infancy through adolescence. Children’s teeth go through many changes as they grow, and it is crucial to have a professional who understands these changes to ensure they maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Subsequently, finding a competent kids dental specialist is among the most pivotal things you should do as a parent, ensuring your child has access to quality oral care. These experts can help with various simple or complex problems besides catching signs of early decay before it snowballs into a major issue.
The ensuing points will help you understand the typical problems such experts can address in children, ensuring they go from baby teeth to fantastic, healthy smiles.
Tooth Decay
It is caused by the collection of plaque on the teeth, which produces acids that erode the enamel. Children are particularly vulnerable to tooth decay because they typically like sweet things and may not practice proper dental hygiene.
Pediatric specialists can help prevent early decay by providing routine checkups and cleanings. They can also apply fluoride treatments to strengthen the enamel and recommend sealants to protect the teeth from decay. They can give restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns in cases where erosion has already occurred.
Malocclusion
It refers to misaligned teeth or a misaligned bite and can result from genetics, thumb sucking, or tongue thrusting. It can lead to problems such as difficulty chewing, speech problems, and low self-esteem.
Child dental care professionals can help correct malocclusion using orthodontic options such as braces or aligners. These treatments can help move teeth into the correct position, improving the child’s bite and overall oral health. This can prevent a range of dental issues as an adult.
Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, it is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. It is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth and gums.
Experts can help prevent it by teaching children proper hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing. They can also provide routine cleanings to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. In cases where gum disease has already occurred, specialists can provide treatment to prevent further damage and restore the health of the gums.
Dental Emergencies
These can happen at any time and can be particularly frightening for children. Typical emergencies include knocked-out or chipped teeth and toothaches. Pediatric specialists are equipped to handle these scenarios and can provide quick and effective treatment to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.
They can also guide on how to prevent future emergencies. Ultimately, less damage while growing up means healthier teeth as adults.
Rely on a Competent Expert
Finding a competent kids dental specialist is vital to ensure your child receives the best care. When looking for one, consider critical factors such as their experience, credentials, and reviews from other patients. You can also browse recommendations from family and friends or consult with your child’s pediatrician for referrals.
An excellent pediatric specialist will have a warm and welcoming demeanor, be patient with children, and thoroughly understand their dental needs and development. They can also address all the issues mentioned above and several more with exceptional care, ensuring your kids have a comfortable and stress-free appointment at the clinic.
Ultimately, a reputable professional can help guide your child’s baby teeth into a beautiful, healthy adult set as time passes.