Information About Pediatric Dental

Pediatric dentistry focuses on children under the age of 18. While the same basic principles apply to pediatric dentistry as to general dentistry, there are some differences that separate the two.

ABPD/AAPD

• Pediatric dentists are governed and led by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Both boards have resources and information specific to pediatric dentistry.

Pediatric Dentist

• A pediatric dentist earns a degree at an accredited dental school but has additional, specialized training. Pediatric dentists treat children only, and, in addition to performing dental procedures, focus on educating children about dental hygiene and making them feel comfortable getting dental work done.

Common Procedures

• General pediatric-dentist visits can include checkups, cleanings, X-rays, sealants, fluoride treatments and flossing instructions. Follow-ups often involve filling cavities.

Nitrous Oxide

• For bigger procedures, such as cavity fillings, pediatric dentists often offer nitrous oxide for children who are fearful of the dental work. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is administered through a mask, relaxing the patient. Its use on children has been deemed safe, according to the AAPD.

Facts

• According to the Dental Health Network, dental caries (decay) is the most common chronic childhood disease, and is five times more common than asthma. Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are equally as important as permanent teeth, helping with proper speech and chewing and paving the way for proper growth of permanent teeth.