Pediatric Dentistry: Is It All Child’s Play?

It’s all too easy to get caught up in the cares and concerns of our health when we’re adults, but let’s not forget that our little ones need just as much care and attention – sometimes even more so.

We all know that kids can get into all sorts of trouble, whether they’re in the playground or scribbling all over your freshly painted living room wall. Sometimes, though, these mishaps can end up causing a lost tooth or other types of dental damage. That’s where pediatric dentistry comes in. It’s a special branch of dentistry that deals exclusively with children, and it could very well save your child’s smile one day.

What is Pediatric Dentistry?

Because the nature and structure of a child’s teeth differ drastically from that of an adult, the amount of care needed and the way it is delivered needs to be different too. For this reason, pediatric dentistry was created. The ‘behind the scenes aspects of pediatric dentistry aims to discover new ways to deal with the various infections and problems that children can encounter, while the ‘front line’ is made up of actual pediatric dentists, who are experienced in treating a range of oral hygiene problems in children.

One factor that has to be considered by pediatric dentists is the fact that children often have ‘baby teeth, which will eventually fall out and be replaced with their adult counterparts. Because the size and shape of these teeth is very different from their adult forms, the tools and procedures are also very different. Pediatric dentists also come across a range of oral hygiene issues with kids because they have a tendency to not want to clean their teeth, and are difficult to convince of the benefits. Call it the arrogance of youth, but for some reason, telling them their teeth will drop out when they’re old doesn’t seem to bother them!

What Are the Benefits of Pediatric Dentistry?

There are a whole host of benefits that are associated with proper pediatric dental care. First and foremost is obviously the health of your child’s teeth. Children are notoriously difficult when it comes to oral hygiene, and a pediatric dentist can give you all sorts of advice which will help you do a better job of imparting the skills necessary for your child to retain a great set of pearly whites.

It is generally recommended that you take your child to see a pediatric dentist roughly once every six months. This will ensure that their teeth are receiving the best possible care. The pediatric dentist will give the child’s teeth a thorough checkup and, if necessary, a good clean. Another benefit of a pediatric dentist is that they are able to provide you with the knowledge that you probably couldn’t gain elsewhere. They can teach you how to clean your children’s teeth properly, including flossing and mouthwash if appropriate.

What Sort of Issues can a Pediatric Dentist Deal With?

Pediatric dentists are fully qualified to deal with a range of issues that affect a child’s oral hygiene. For example, your child may at some point suffer from plaque buildup or tooth decay. A pediatric dentist can teach your child how to avoid this situation in the future, as well as repairing any damage and removing the plaque. Pediatric dentists can also help with any diseases that may affect your child’s mouth.

Whilst relatively rare, it is possible that your child could contract mild gum disease (known as gingivitis) or an infection (this can happen a lot, as children tend to put things in their mouths). The dentist will be able to treat these problems in a way that is appropriate for a child. There are some ‘adult’ treatments that are simply too harsh to be applied to a child’s mouth. Pediatric dentistry utilizes well-researched alternatives to ensure the safety of the child throughout any of these procedures.

Should You Take Your Child to a Pediatric Dentist?

The short answer to this is yes. Overall, it makes a lot more sense to employ someone who is specifically trained in the area to take care of your child’s oral hygiene. Whilst an ‘adult’ dentist will gladly treat a child, there is always a risk that they may not use the most gentle or effective methods to treat a child’s oral hygiene problems.

To be on the safe side, it really is important to have your child’s teeth looked at by a pediatric dentist at least once every six months. If any issues occur ‘in the between’ you can always make an appointment to see a pediatric dentist in the same way you would an adult one. Remember, the health and future of your children’s teeth really is in your hands.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate health care provider.

Here you will be able to find answers to some of the most often asked questions.

What is Orthodontics?
What is an orthodontist?
Who should wear braces?
How long will my orthodontic treatment last?
What kind of braces are available?
How much do braces cost?
Do braces hurt?
Will braces affect playing sports?
Why are retainers so important?
Where can I learn more?

Q: What is an orthodontist?
A: An orthodontist is a dentist who has attended a specialty education program for a continual training period of 2-3 years. All members of the American Association of Orthodontists have received the appropriate training.

Q: Who should wear braces?
A: Braces are worn by both children and adults, not only to improve the attractiveness of your smile but also because braces correct improper alignment of teeth that can lead to gum disease and early tooth loss. Properly aligned teeth also make it easier to chew all types of food and eliminate the headaches and pain caused by uneven chewing.

Q: How long will my orthodontic treatment last?
A: We expect your treatment to last from 18 to 30 months, though this will vary depending on your individual case. Your cooperation in keeping scheduled orthodontic appointments, maintaining proper hygiene, and taking care of your braces may allow us to finish your orthodontic treatment early.

Q: What kind of braces are available?
A: In the past, there was only one type of braces available, and it wasn’t designed for looks. Modern technology gives you choices for braces, including traditional stainless steel braces, clear ceramic braces, and the latest in orthodontic technology, Invisalign. For more information on Invisalign, please check their website, at http://www.invisalign.com/.

Q: How much do braces cost?
A: Orthodontic fees depend on the complexity of the case, the age of the patient, the type of appliances used, and the estimated length of treatment. Since every case is different, a visit to our office for a complimentary examination will allow us to give you an idea of the fee.

Q: Do braces hurt?
A: There have been some fantastic advances in the way we do things now in orthodontics to make treatment more comfortable for our patients. These include smaller, smoother brackets, and gentler wires which provide a continuous small force over a long period of time rather than a strong force for only a short period. Typically there is some discomfort two to three days after each adjustment that over-the-counter pain relievers can take care of.

Q: Will braces affect playing sports?
A: You should be able to play just about any sport or activity. Although we do highly recommend wearing a mouthguard in contact sports or any sport where there is a chance you can get hit in the face.

Q: Why are retainers so important?
A: Retainers help to retain your teeth in the proper position at the completion of treatment. If they are not worn as instructed, your teeth will move or tend to relapse. Retainers are EXTREMELY important right after the braces are removed while the teeth stabilize.

Q: Where can I learn more?
A: You can contact us, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
More on this website about Orthodontics San Antonio

The first appointment is the “initial examination”. This appointment allows the doctor and the staff the opportunity to meet you or your child and to obtain basic information regarding any current or potential orthodontic problems. A medical and dental history are obtained as well as a thorough clinical evaluation and documentation of any orthodontic problems. A panoramic x-ray (screening x-ray) may be taken, if you do not have or bring one, to evaluate the development of the teeth, the presence or absence of any teeth, and the integrity of the supporting dental structures. After examination, general questions regarding the nature of the orthodontic problems (if any), type of treatment required, estimated time of treatment, and when treatment should be initiated, will be answered. If treatment is recommended after the initial examination, diagnostic records will be required so that the doctor can further evaluate the problems and propose a recommended plan of treatment. If treatment is not indicated at the time of the initial examination, he will suggest a recall regimen to monitor the child’s growth and dental development.

Once the initial examination has been completed, the staff can address any financial concerns and discuss the payment options available through our office. We will be glad to explore any orthodontic insurance benefits you or your child may have.

Note: If orthodontic treatment is indicated, it is very important that you or your child has seen your family dentist for a checkup within the past six months. If any cavities are to be filled, these should be completed prior to initiation of the orthodontic treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any orthodontic diagnostic records that may have previously been taken.
Any orthodontic insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician.

What To Expect (TMJ or TMD Exam)

The initial examination appointment is to determine the basic nature of your “TMD” problems and discuss the possible treatment modalities available to address these problems. A thorough evaluation of your medical and dental history as well as the effectiveness of any previous “TMD” treatment that has been rendered, will be investigated. A comprehensive clinical evaluation will be performed to assess and document areas that can contribute to jaw-related pain and dysfunction. A panorex (screening x-ray) will be taken, if you do not have a recent one, to evaluate any abnormalities in the jaw joints, teeth, and the supporting structures of the teeth. After the initial evaluation, further diagnostic information may be necessary to establish a proper diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Once the examination is complete, a financial estimate of any necessary treatment will be discussed by a staff member before treatment is initiated. If you have dental or medical insurance, we will be happy to determine if you have any benefits covering “TMD” treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any records that may have previously been taken to evaluate your “TMD” problems.
Any dental or medical insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician. More on this website