Pedodontics place special importance in preventing tooth decay. Refer to this section for brief information. Below the green box content.
Pedodontics, dental specialty that deals with the care of children's teeth. The pedodontist is extensively concerned with prevention, which includes instruction in proper diet, use of fluoride, and practice of oral hygiene.
The pedodontist's routine practice deals basically with caries (tooth decay) but includes influencing tooth alignment.
Lengthy treatment may be required to correct incipient abnormalities in tooth position. Braces or other correctional devices may be used.
It is recommended that children should go to the dentist with their parents as soon as possible. You should then take them regularly, as often as your dentist recommends.
This will let them get used to the noises, smells and surroundings and prepare them for future visits. The earlier these visits begin, the more relaxed the children will be.
Toothache is painful and upsetting, especially in children, and the main cause is still tooth decay. This is due to too much sugar or acid, too often, in the diet.
Teething is another problem which starts at around 6 months and can continue as all the adult teeth start to come through.
If your child needs pain relief, make sure you choose a sugar-free medicine and also remember to check with the doctor or pharmacist that you are being prescribed sugar-free medicines at all times. If the pain continues then contact your dentist for an appointment.
Children can sense fear in their parents, so it is important not to let your child feel that a visit to the dentist is something to be worried about. Try to be supportive if your child needs to have any dental treatment. If you have any fears of your own about going to the dentist, don't discuss them in front of your child.
Regular visits to the dentist are essential in helping your child to get used to the surroundings and what goes on there. A child can be much more anxious if it is their first visit to a dental practice.
Pain and distress can happen at any time and it is important to prepare your child with regular visits.