Pediatric Dentistry

What does pediatric dentistry include?

Pediatric dentistry includes using sealants to help prevent cavities and tooth decay on a child’s back molars. This is a proven preventive treatment that works by applying a thin acrylic coating over the teeth and allowing it to harden, which keeps out unwanted bacteria and plaque that could otherwise harm the teeth.

Additionally, using fluoride applications to strengthen your child’s tooth enamel is extremely helpful in preventing decay. This involves applying fluoride directly to the teeth—it will bond the enamel and help keep teeth strong and healthy, it could even reverse decay.

What are the common issues of dental health in children?

Many of a kid’s dental problems are the same ones affecting adults, but as children’s teeth are still developing, untreated dental conditions can cause poor and misaligned tooth development, leading to a more serious problem as a child grows up.

Some of the most common issues with children are:
– Tooth decay
– Bad breath
– Sensitive teeth
– Thumb-sucking
– Gum disease
– Teeth grinding
– Canker sores
– Baby teeth-loss
– Over-retained primary teeth
– Dental Anxiety

What makes Perimeter Dental different?

We provide a warm, fun, and friendly environment that will help your children relax and feel more receptive to the examinations and treatments.

We encourage parents and family members to be with their children and interact with them throughout the treatment to further strengthen the kids’ feeling of safety and security.

Our staff will carefully go through the dental evaluation and the available and recommended treatment options with the parents so that they can arrive at a fully informed decision.

Teaching children about good dental care habits can help lay down a firm foundation for excellent dental self-care as they grow older and throughout the rest of their life. This is why choosing the right dentist is important.

At what age should my child first visit the pediatric dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts.

What are dental sealants, and are they recommended for children?

Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities. They are highly recommended for children, as they can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay in the back teeth.

Are thumb sucking and pacifier use harmful to my child's dental health?

Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can affect dental development, leading to issues like misaligned teeth or bite problems. Pediatric dentists can provide guidance on how to encourage your child to stop these habits.

When should children start brushing their teeth, and what type of toothpaste should they use?

Children should start brushing their teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts, using a smear of fluoride toothpaste. Once they reach age 3, a pea-sized amount of toothpaste can be used, and parents should supervise brushing until around age 6 or 7.