Pediatric dentistry is the area of dentistry that focuses on children’s oral health. At Southeast Family Dental, our pediatric dentists also focus on preventative care. This can help prevent cavities and gingivitis. Additionally, a pediatric dentist is trained to help children feel comfortable during their appointments. This can help children develop healthy dental habits that will continue into adulthood.
The Most Common Dental Problems for Children
Children’s teeth are more prone to dental problems than adult teeth. This is because children are still learning to properly care for their teeth. A pediatric dentist can help your child with many dental problems.
One of the most common pediatric dental problems is baby bottle tooth decay. This is when a baby’s teeth have severe decay from being frequently exposed to sugary drinks like milk and juice. These sugary drinks can coat your baby’s teeth with sugar. If they aren’t properly cleaned, this can lead to decay.
Why Should You Consult a Pediatric Dentist?
Children should visit the dentist twice yearly for a routine cleaning and exam. Regular dental exams can improve your child’s oral health and help identify dental problems before they become serious. During a routine examination, the pediatric dentist will examine your child’s teeth and gums, looking for any signs of dental issues, including tooth decay. Other benefits and treatments provided by a pediatric dentist are:
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment can help your child avoid many orthodontic problems later in life. Our dentist can improve your child’s oral health, comfort, and appearance by straightening the teeth and correcting bite alignment.
Many children benefit from orthodontic treatment, but the best time for braces depends on the type of problem. Sometimes, waiting a few years may allow the situation to correct itself. However, if a problem persists, it’s essential to address it as soon as possible. If left untreated, orthodontic problems can worsen and affect your child’s oral health and appearance.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a plastic resin coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where tooth decay most often occurs. Sealants create a barrier over the tooth’s enamel, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling in the pits and fissures of the tooth.
Oral Habits in Children
Children who are around six months old should start seeing the dentist. These early visits will begin with the child’s first dental cleaning. This is because children’s teeth are very susceptible to decay. Once the teeth have been cleaned, the dentist can take a look at the health of the baby's teeth. Baby teeth help children form clear speech patterns and are suitable placeholders for adult teeth. What’s more, children get the sense that going to the dentist is a regular event.
To learn more about the advantages of Pediatric dentistry, contact Southeast Family Dental at 6020 Southeastern Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203, or call Dentist in Indianapolis, IN at (317) 359-8000.