Pediatric Dentistry

What exactly does pediatric dentistry refer to? It is referring to a specialized branch of dentistry that treats children.

Parents should be concerned with cleaning their baby's teeth at a very early age. In addition, it is very important for children to develop good habits at a very early age.

Pediatric Dentists specialize in avoiding the development of fear by children. They try to eliminate fear by making the experience as pleasant as possible. Many offer toys, movies, prizes, etc. Parents must try to avoid showing their own fears to their children and present the experience as one to look forward to.

Some questions often asked are:

What age should the first visit to the dentist be?

The American Dental Association recommends that your child's first dental examination should occur between the ages of 12 and 15 months.

How often should dentist appointments be scheduled?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends at least twice a year for most children.

Some children may need more frequent visits because of increased risk of tooth decay or poor oral hygiene. Many dental hygienists can assist with teaching your child the fundamental basics of good oral hygiene. Remember, the key factor is to NOT have your child develop dental phobia and to develop a good oral hygiene ritual that your child can follow.