Pedodontics
Toothaches can be extremely painful and frightening, especially for children. Every visit to the dentist can cause fear and anxiety, and calming a child who is afraid of the very thought of the dentist can be a real challenge. That's why a pedodontist - a specialist who deals with children's oral health - is important. Pedodontics, with professional care and a gentle approach tailored to the child's needs, builds a positive attitude towards dentistry and dental health from an early age.
With the right pedodontist, going to the dentist becomes an experience that doesn't have to be scary, and healthy teeth for a child ensure a carefree future.
What is pedodontics?
Pedodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the preservation of dental health in children. Its goal is to prevent the occurrence of caries and irregular tooth growth in young patients, and to provide appropriate therapy when necessary. Pedodontists use special approaches that take into account the psychological and physical needs of children, reducing their anxiety about dental treatments.
Early recognition of problems in children prevents complications at a later age, and pedodontics includes preventive treatments such as tooth fillings – especially permanent teeth – which provide protection against caries and long-term preservation of oral health.
Who is pedodontics intended for?
Pedodontics is necessary for all children because timely examinations and treatments can prevent serious dental health problems. Pedodontists specialize in working with children, helping them develop healthy habits for life.
Regular preventive examinations, dental protection treatments and proper dental care at an early age prevent the occurrence of cavities, gingivitis and orthodontic problems. In addition, pedodontics is important for children who have an increased risk of cavities or orthodontic irregularities. Good pedodontic treatment helps children get rid of their fear of the dentist because the procedures are adapted to their needs.
What does a periodontist procedure look like?
A visit to a pedodontist is an important step in ensuring your child’s oral health. Early and regular monitoring of oral health helps prevent serious dental problems and contributes to the development of a positive attitude towards dental care. The process of pedodontic treatment is based on an individual approach, where the pedodontist carefully monitors the development of the child’s teeth and oral cavity, adapting treatments to the child’s needs. The goal of our four key steps is to build trust, educate parents and children, and provide a foundation for long-term preservation of healthy teeth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the "fissure sealing" that the pedodontist mentions?
Fissure sealing is a preventive procedure used to protect molars and premolars, which are among the teeth most commonly affected by the development of cavities. Teeth have natural cracks and grooves that can become ideal places for food and bacteria to accumulate. During a seal, the pedodontist uses a special material to close these fissures, thereby reducing the possibility of cavities. This procedure is quick, painless and extremely effective in protecting teeth, reducing the risk of cavities by up to 50%.
How often should I take my child to see a pediatric dentist?
Regular visits to the pediatric dentist are recommended at least every six months to detect and prevent potential problems. Checkups allow the pediatric dentist to monitor the development of your child's teeth and respond promptly to cavities, orthodontic irregularities, or any other complications. Regular checkups help guide your child toward proper oral hygiene and healthy eating habits.
Why treat a baby tooth?
Although baby teeth will eventually fall out, that doesn't mean they should be neglected. Baby teeth play an important role in oral health, helping to develop the jaw, chew food properly, and hold space for permanent teeth. If left untreated, cavities in baby teeth can cause pain, discomfort, and bad breath, and can even cause a fear of the dentist. Regularly treating baby teeth helps your child develop positive oral hygiene and prevention habits, which will have long-term benefits for the health of their permanent teeth.
How important is nutrition in maintaining the health of your child's teeth?
Nutrition is crucial for dental health. Foods high in sugar and acids can accelerate the development of cavities, while foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus help strengthen enamel and protect teeth from damage. Encouraging your child to eat fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and whole grains helps maintain healthy teeth and gums; it's important to avoid too many sweeteners and carbonated drinks, which can negatively affect your child's dental health.
What is mixed dentition?
Mixed dentition is a stage in a child's development between the ages of 6 and 12 when baby teeth begin to fall out and permanent teeth begin to grow. During this period, a child may have both baby and permanent teeth in the same mouth. This stage is crucial because it can lead to orthodontic problems, irregular tooth growth, and developmental problems in the jaws. Pedodontists carefully monitor this process to identify any abnormalities and correct them in a timely manner, thus ensuring the proper development of permanent teeth and a healthy mouth.
"Working with children in dentistry requires special patience, attention and empathy. Children's fears, often unconscious, can significantly affect their experience of a dental visit. This is precisely why cooperation with parents is crucial - by preparing children for the visit, we create the foundation for a positive and relaxed experience. At Dentex Polyclinic, we strive to provide a safe environment that allows children to relax and gain trust in the dentist. Our goal is to create a healthy smile, and for this, teamwork and dedication to each little patient are the most important."
Anita Buterin, dr. med. dent.