What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist specializes in treating children and their oral health. Pediatric dentists have received specialized training in dental hygiene, oral medicine, orthodontics, and sleep medicine. This can include children who have some form of physical or developmental disabilities, as well as those who have had a cleft palate or other craniofacial problems. Pediatric dentists also specialize in dental implants and teeth replacement procedures.
What is the Education Qualification of a Pediatric Dentist?
The educational qualification of a pediatric dentist is much higher than that of a general dentist. To be a pediatric dentist, you must complete an undergraduate degree in dentistry from an accredited dental school and pass the National Board of Dental Examiners (NBDE) Part I and II exams. They also need to complete a residency program in pediatrics before practicing as a pediatric dentist.
What are Pediatric Dental Procedures?
A Children’s dentist offers several treatments, including:
1) Oral Health Examinations
Oral health examinations are an important part of your child’s dental care. An oral health examination aims to detect any problems with the teeth, gums, and mouth that may need treatment.
You should schedule regular oral health examinations for your child because they can help detect early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other problems that could lead to serious illness later in life.
2) Dental Cleaning
Cleaning is an important part of good dental hygiene. It helps remove plaque and food particles, which can lead to cavities if left untreated.
To brush your child’s teeth properly, you’ll need a soft toothbrush with bristles made of natural materials (like wood, silicone, or rubber). The bristles should be soft enough not to hurt but firm enough to scrub away plaque buildup on the surface of the enamel.
3) Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, as well as cavities. It also helps strengthen teeth, which can help prevent gum disease and other problems.
A pediatric dentist applies fluoride varnish, gel, or foam on the teeth and rinses it off after 30 minutes. The frequency of application depends on your child’s age and the condition of the teeth.
4) Tooth Fillings
Dental fillings are used to repair decayed teeth. They are made of metal, composite resin, or porcelain. The dentist removes the decayed or damaged part, cleans the teeth, and fixes the fillings to repair the teeth.
5) Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease is a common problem in adults and children. It can be painful, but it is not always painful. The most common form of gum disease is periodontal disease, which affects the gums around your teeth.
Gum disease can be treated with antibiotics, scaling and root planing, or surgery depending on the severity of your case.
It can lead to tooth loss or bone loss that might require a surgical procedure called an implantation graft if you have lost all of your teeth due to periodontal disease.
6) Sealants for Teeth and Molars
Dental sealants are coatings used to protect the enamel against decay and cavities. The dentist will clean the teeth, roughen them, and apply the sealant.
7) Root Canal Work
Root canal work is a procedure that can be performed on teeth that have been compromised by decay and cavitation. Our dentist in Austin will remove the decayed portion, which includes the pulp chamber, pulp canal, and root tip. This allows them to re-establish the tooth’s structure while maintaining its function.
8) Dental X-rays
X-rays are a painless and quick way to see inside your mouth. They can help detect cavities, tooth decay, and other problems like cracked or broken teeth. If you have difficulty chewing food, it could mean a problem with the jawbone or teeth. If you notice any changes in your child’s bite, talk to our pediatric dentist in Hudson Bend, TX about what could be causing them trouble eating.
9) Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies are common, and your pediatric dentist is trained to handle them. If your child needs emergency care, call their office immediately or go there as soon as possible.
Schedule an Appointment
Early dental care is essential for young children. The earlier a child can receive the right care, the better the chances of avoiding any oral health problem.
Are you searching for a children’s dentist in Austin, TX? Call our pediatric dentist near Lakeway, TX now or set an appointment with Lake Travis Family & Cosmetic Dentistry for more information about our pediatric dental services!
