What is pediatric dentistry? A guide for parents

Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that cares for children’s oral and dental health. Helping a child grow up trusting the dentist is as important a part of this field as treating baby teeth.

Why do baby teeth matter?

Baby teeth make chewing, eating and speech development possible, and they hold space for the permanent teeth coming in underneath. If they are lost early, permanent teeth may come in crooked; untreated decay and abscesses can affect the permanent tooth below.

When should the first exam be?

When the first tooth comes in, or by around age one at the latest. This visit is for the child to get to know the setting and for you to get advice on brushing and diet. After that, a check-up every six months is usually enough.

Preventive treatments

• Fluoride application: Helps strengthen tooth enamel.
• Fissure sealants: Seal the deep grooves of the molars to reduce the risk of decay.
• Space maintainers: Hold the space of a baby tooth lost early.

How can you prepare your child for the dentist?

• Do not make promises like “it won’t hurt” or “there won’t be a needle”.
• Do not use the dentist as a threat.
• Try not to pass your own anxiety on to your child.
• Make the first visit before there is any pain, just to get acquainted.

At our practice we keep the first visit just for getting to know each other and playing. For children who cannot be treated in the chair, general anesthesia with an anesthesiologist is also an option. For details, read our pediatric dentistry and general anesthesia for children pages.